Hi my special By My Side friends,
I hope this post finds you all well. It was a beautiful, warm evening last night in Ottawa as I went trick-or-treating with my 2-year-old grandson and his baby twin sisters. I enjoyed that innocent exuberance as he ran from home to home, ringing doorbells and being greeted by such kind neighbours. Warms my heart every time.
So, last month we touched upon 4 tests that our Lord can sometimes bring about for us, where He may withhold our blessings when our prayers don’t get answered right away. They were the tests of Patience, Faith, Obedience, and Surrender. Today, I will add 4 remaining tests He may bestow upon us. Here they are:
- The Test of Character. God often allows circumstances to test our character, particularly in how we handle success, failure, or adversity. This test reveals our integrity, humility, and ability to remain grounded in our values. God blesses those whose character can sustain the weight of the blessings He is about to give. How we respond in moments of pressure is key to unlocking greater favour. So in prayer, perhaps say, “Dear Lord, please strengthen my character. Help me through any difficult circumstances that may come my way to strengthen my character the way You want to see it strengthened.”
- The Test of Forgiveness. Before God can bless us, He may test our heart through forgiveness. Are we willing to forgive those who have wronged us, even when it is difficult? Harbouring resentment or bitterness can block our blessings, and God may challenge us to let go of past hurts. This test purifies our heart and prepares us to receive the fullness of His grace and love. Remember, forgiveness is a decision, not a feeling. Decide to forgive first, then forgive, and then the feeling of forgiveness will come in time. A prayer towards forgiveness can be, “Lord, help me desire to forgive ___ or myself for ___. Give me the strength to say the words, ‘I forgive ___ for ___.’”
- The Test of Resilience. Sometimes, before God can bless us or answer our prayers, He may test our resilience by allowing obstacles, setbacks, or hardship to come our way. This is not to discourage us but to build our strength. In these moments, God watches to see how we handle adversity—whether we will give up or keep pressing forward. Resilience is needed to carry the weight of the blessings ahead and shows that we are prepared for what God has in store for us. Perhaps try praying, “Lord, stay with me during this obstacle (name it). Give me the resolve that only You can give me to get through this. I can’t do it on my own. I need Your guidance and strength to persevere through this.”
- The Test of Humility. Humility is freedom from pride and arrogance. It’s a virtue by which a person considers his own defects and has the wherewithal to submit himself to God and to others for God’s sake. That is when we grow the most—through a humble heart and attitude about ourselves. Humility is the foundation of prayer. It is a prerequisite for prayer and salvation. One can’t approach God in any other way than in humility. It is the practice of meekness, obedience to God, respect for self and others, submissiveness to God, and modesty. People with humility put others’ needs before their own and sacrifice for the love of others. So in prayer, perhaps say, “Dear Lord, strengthen my humility, remove any pride or arrogance I may carry, give me more compassion for others, and help me to sacrifice more for others and for You, Dear God. Reveal to me my flaws or sins I can’t recall so that I can improve my character and confess my sins to You.”
So, these are 8 tests that we can all consider when our Lord may not answer our prayers right away, while He is moulding us into something beautiful.
Have a great November, everybody.
Love, MJ xo
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