A faith that cannot be tested cannot be trusted. New believers must expect their faith to be tried, because this is the way God proves whether or not their decision is genuine. Faith, like a muscle, must be exercised to grow stronger. Tribulation and persecution are God’s ways to strengthen our faith.

One of my favorite books is Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret by Dr. and Mrs. Howard Taylor. In it one reads how Hudson Taylor’s faith in God grew from the first day he determined to live by faith in God alone. He learned to trust God for his salary and daily needs. As his faith was tested, he was able to trust God to supply for an entire missionary organization. Sometimes it seemed that God had forgotten, but Taylor continued to pray and trust—and God answered.

An easy life can lead to a shallow faith. The great men and women of faith in Hebrews 11 all suffered in one way or another, or faced tremendous obstacles, so that their faith could grow.

Verse for today: “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of our faith worketh patience” (James 1:2-3).

Also read: 1 Thessalonians 3:i0; Philippians 4:19; 1 Peter 1:7.

Action assignment: Discuss with the Lord how you can exercise your faith through the challenges you face today. Thank God now for answering your prayer.

Warren W. Wiersbe
www.backtothebible.in