Testing of faith

God allows faith to be tested

Testing proves the genuineness of faith

1 Peter 1:6–7 NKJV

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,

See also Mt 13:20–21

Testing develops Christian character

James 1:2–4 NKJV

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

See also Ro 5:3–4

Testing purifies God’s people

Isaiah 48:10 NKJV

Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.

See also Ps 66:10–12; Je 9:7; Zec 13:9; Mal 3:2–3; 1 Pe 4:17

Examples of God testing faith

Abraham is told to sacrifice Isaac:

Ge 22:1–2; Heb 11:17–19

Dt 8:2–5 God tested Israel in the desert; Jdg 7:1–8 God reduces Gideon’s army; Mt 15:21–28 Jesus Christ appears to discourage the Canaanite woman; Jn 11:1–6 Jesus Christ delays going to Bethany when Lazarus is ill.

Means by which faith is tested

God allows Satan to test faith

Job 2:7 NKJV

So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord, and struck Job with painful boils from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head.

See also Lk 22:31; 1 Th 3:4–5; Re 2:10

Difficult circumstances test faith

1 Ki 17:17–18; 2 Ki 4:1; 2 Ki 4:27–28; Ac 14:22; 2 Co 11:25–27

Persecution tests faith

Da 6:10–12; Ac 8:1–4; Heb 11:35–38

Discouraging people test faith

2 Ki 18:19–25; Mk 5:35–36; Mk 5:40

God’s promise of help during testing

Is 43:2; Lk 22:32

See also Ps 91:14–15; 1 Co 10:13; 2 Co 12:7–9; 1 Pe 5:10; 2 Pe 2:9

God’s help through the encouragement of others

1 Thessalonians 3:2–3 NKJV

and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this.

See also 2 Co 7:5–7

The response to trials

Rejoicing at sharing Jesus Christ’s suffering

1 Peter 4:12–13 NKJV

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.

Praying for God’s help

Heb 4:14–16; 1 Pe 4:19

Persevering

James 1:12 NKJV

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

See also 2 Th 1:4; Heb 12:1–3; Jas 5:11; Re 2:3; Re 2:19

Examples of faith victorious through testing

Ge 22:9–12 Abraham; 2 Ki 6:15–17 Elisha’s servant; Job 1:22 Job; Da 3:16–27 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego; Ac 5:27–29 the apostles; Ac 7:59–60 Stephen; 2 Co 4:7–9 Paul