The Lord Tests the Hearts

E.K. Hassell

1.     Tests are used to reveal the weaknesses and deficiencies in our lives

a.      Math tests reveal what we have and have not mastered

b.     Tests help us to know where we stand

2.     Tests are used to reveal what is in our heart

a.     Psalm 26:2  “Examine me, O Lord, and prove (test) me; Try my heart and my mind.”

b.     Psalm 139:23-24  “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;  And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

c.     Tests can come as in the form of temptations

                                                  i.      God does not tempt us, but temptation tests whether we will choose the way of God or to give into our lusts

3.     Tests can come as fiery trials of suffering and pain

a.      1 Peter 4:12-13  “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.”

b.     Job was tested, but he did not deny the Lord

4.     Tests come to purify us

a.      Malachi 3:1-3

b.     To produce a righteous offering

5.     Tests come to prove the genuineness of our faith

a.      1 Peter 1:6-7  “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 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.”

6.     Tests come to produce patience in the processes of God

a.      James 1:2-4  “Dear brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations?  Then be happy, for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow.  So let it grow, and don’t try to squirm out of your problems.  For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.”

7.     Tests come to prove our readiness for ministry

a.      1 Timothy 3:10 (TLB) “Before they are asked to be deacons (ministers) they should be given other jobs in the church as a test of their character and ability, and if they do well, then they may be chosen as deacons.”

8.     Tests are means toward promotion

a.      Leaders are promoted based on what they do during testing time, not what they do in times of blessing

b.     You don’t promote kids from one grade to the other until they can pass the test (mastery of the material)

c.     If we want to move up, we must pass the test

                                                  i.      Pass the test and get a “TESTimony”

                                                ii.      Fail the test and get the “monies” (“MOANies)

d.     We must pass the test in three areas

                                                  i.      Right response: Obedience

                                                ii.      Right attitude: Willingness (not grumbling and complaining)

                                              iii.      Right motive: Love

9.     Some tests we may encounter

a.      Trust test

b.     Faithfulness test

c.     Security test

d.     Rejection test

e.      “When all men speak evil of you” test

f.       “Judas kiss” test (betrayal)

g.     Forgiveness test

h.     Humility test

i.        Obedience test

j.        Attitude test

k.     Motive test

l.