Step By Step [Obey God, Even If You Don't Know Where He's Leading] Devotions Day 3

When Faith Is Tested

Devotional
Every journey of faith eventually faces a test. For Abraham, the ultimate test came when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac... the very son through whom God had promised to fulfill His covenant. It was a moment that defied human understanding and seemed to contradict God's own promise. Yet Abraham's response reveals the essence of mature faith. He didn't understand God's plan, but he trusted God's character. He believed that God was good, faithful, and powerful enough to keep His promises, even if the path forward seemed impossible. Our faith tests may look different from Abraham's, but they share a common purpose. Tests reveal what we truly believe about God when pressure is applied. Do we trust His character when His plan makes no sense? Do we believe He is working for our good even when circumstances suggest otherwise? Tests also strengthen our faith. Just as physical muscles grow stronger through resistance, our spiritual muscles develop through challenges. The faith that emerges from testing is more resilient, more pure, and more powerful than before. Whatever test you're facing today, remember that God isn't trying to break you... He's building you. He sees beyond the test to the testimony it will create in your life.

Bible Verse
So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. - 1 Peter 1:6-7

Reflection Question
What current challenge in your life feels like a test of your faith, and how might God be using it to strengthen your trust in Him?

Quote 
Faith isn't always about understanding God's plan. A lot of times it's about holding on to God's character when the plan makes no sense.

Prayer
God, when my faith is tested, help me to hold fast to Your character. Give me strength to trust You even when I don't understand Your plan. Thank You for the growth that comes through these challenging seasons. Amen.