Devotion: Trials and Tests.

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Theme Verse:  
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." — James 1:2–3 (NIV)

Introduction: Life is a journey marked by seasons of joy and seasons of hardship. Trials and tests are not interruptions to our faith—they are invitations to deepen it. God never wastes a trial. Each one is a divine classroom where our character is refined, our trust is stretched, and our hearts are drawn closer to Him.

Biblical Examples:
1. Abraham — The Test of Obedience  
In Genesis 22, God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac. It was a test of obedience and trust. Abraham passed the test, and God provided a ram in place of Isaac.  
"Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son." — Genesis 22:12

2. Joseph — The Trial of Injustice  
Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and imprisoned unjustly. Yet through every trial, God was preparing him to save nations.  
"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done." — Genesis 50:20

3. Job — The Trial of Suffering  
Job lost everything—his wealth, children, and health. Yet he declared,  
"Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him." — Job 13:15  
In the end, God restored Job and blessed him even more than before.

4. Jesus — The Ultimate Test  
Jesus faced the greatest trial in Gethsemane and on the cross. His obedience through suffering became the pathway to our salvation.  
"He learned obedience from what he suffered." — Hebrews 5:8

What Trials Produce:
- Perseverance: Trials teach us to endure and not give up (Romans 5:3–4).
- Character: They refine our hearts and expose hidden motives (1 Peter 1:6–7).
- Faith: Tests stretch our trust in God beyond comfort zones (1 Corinthians 10:13).
- Hope: They remind us that this world is not our home (2 Corinthians 4:17–18).

Reflection: Are you in a season of testing? Don’t rush out of it. Ask God what He wants to teach you. Trials are not signs of abandonment—they are signs of preparation. God is forging something eternal in you.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the trials that shape me. Help me to see Your hand in every test. Strengthen my faith, deepen my trust, and refine my heart. May I emerge from every trial more like Jesus. Amen.

What are you going through, persevere and stay faithful, God will see you through. Testimony awaits you. 

©Dr Joel Olanrewaju, please share your thoughts here. Feel free to share this devotional with your contacts.

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