Faith & Trials
Key Verse
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.”
– James 1:2–3
Basic Biblical Understanding
It’s been said that a faith that cannot be tested is a faith that cannot be trusted. That sounds like an “amen worthy” statement until it’s your faith being tested. Why is our faith constantly tested, and why does God allow it? Here are a few biblical thoughts to keep in mind.
First, Satan attacks our faith because faith is vital to our walk with Christ. The Christian life begins in faith (John 3:16), is lived by faith (Hebrews 10:38), and culminates in faith (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18). Even the work of Christian ministry is faith (John 6:29). Since faith is central to the message and work of Christ, Satan is constantly attacking our faith. His objective is to get us to abuse faith, misuse faith, or give up on faith all together. If he can do that, it stifles our spiritual growth and removes the very thing that pleases God (Hebrews 11:6).
Second, God allows our faith to be tested to develop our character. Challenges to our faith do not mean God is distant or unconcerned. They are invitations for personal growth. James tells us that trials are a reason for joy. Why? Because “the testing of our faith produces endurance,” and endurance results in being “perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:3–4). Challenges to our faith become the pathway to spiritual growth.
Third, God allows our faith to be tested to deepen our knowledge of Him. Knowing God is about more than information; we also get to know God in suffering (Philippians 3:8–11). Through trials and suffering, we are compelled to turn to God for help, insight, strength, hope, and peace. Trials are a tangible reminder of our constant need for God.
Verses (ask God to to show you how they apply to your life)
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
– Philippians 4:6
“I am crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God.”
– Galatians 2:20
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding”
– Proverbs 3:5
Helpful Questions and Application
There are things we learn in trials that are only learned under those circumstances. To walk away from God at that time is the worst thing we can do. What is God teaching you today through your trials? How is He encouraging you to trust Him?
God can remove any trial at any time. The fact that He chooses to allow us to go through trials helps us see that the process may be more important than the outcome. Take a moment to thank God for the process and ask Him what He wants you to learn.
God uses trials to reveal our blessings and instill gratitude. We’re rarely thankful for the blessing of health until we’re struggling with sickness. We’re rarely thankful for the blessing of paying bills until we can’t pay them. How have your trials pinpointed areas of ingratitude? Take time to thank God for your blessings.
Additional Resources
Scripture references: Hebrews 11; 1 Peter 4:12–13; 1 Peter 5:10; Romans 8:28
WordTruth Article:
”Trusting in God in Trials Out of Our Control”
”Don’t Lose Heart”
”Trials—God’s Pathway for Growth and Grace”