The Trials of Life

As we journey through life there are things that happen that cause us to pause and reflect. There are times when we wonder if we are even headed in the right direction as it seems all circumstances, at that moment, are arrayed against what we are trying to do. It is during these times that we are being tested as to our attitudes.

One of the things I have discovered is that, when something happens, the test is on both the one going through it, and those responding to what they observe in the life of the one being tried. We see this in the life of Job, the example of extreme trial. The perceptions of the three friends were being tested, as well as Job. Job's loyalty to God and His purpose was tested by the stripping of all he had, including his family. His wife's attitude was tested.

The theology of the three friends was exposed. The limitation of their revelation of God and their experience of him was manifest. The three friends did not realize they were being tested. Like many today they were distracted by the trial of others. How they judged Job, manifest what was in their hearts, and caused God to tell them they needed to repent.

So it is with us today, how we react to the trials and actions of others manifests what is truly in our hearts. It is important that we look to our reactions to the trials of others and look to our own hearts.