The Testing Of Our Faith

"...And said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die. Moses said to the people, 'Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning" (Exodus 20:19-20).

I stand and look out my patio sliding door and through the glass wet with rain, the never ending rain, for more than a week it has rained every day. I'm doing my best to remember to thank God for the rain. So a little humor might just cheer me up and possibly you who are going through a rainy period in your life and finding it hard to remember to thank God for the rain. So here is a funny, hope my friend thinks it is funny and give him a good laugh, and you too. 


An Easterner was riding with a rancher across a blistering hot stretch of Texas. Equally warm was the glowing praise of the rancher for the glories of his home state. Suddenly a beautiful plumed bird dashed across the road. "What kind of bird is that?" asked the easterner. "Bird of Paradise," said the Texan. the easterner rode in silence for a few more bump, then remarked, "Long way from home, isn't he?"

What does that have to do with testing our faith? Have you ever met an angry Texan? It is good to smile and reflect on what God has done for us, when the rain doesn't seem to be letting up and the testing seems to last far to long remember, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers [sisters], whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:2-3). James wrote this to the Jewish Christians who had been scattered because of persecution. I don't know about you but I have not been persecuted to the extent that I had to leave my home, possessions, and run for my life to escape death. James then reminds of of Job's perseverance, "As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. the Lords is full of compassion and mercy" (James 5:10-11).

Well, the rain continues, I have hope that tomorrow will be sunny for the Lord is "full of compassion and mercy" and if I have to wait a little longer my faith will grow stronger for God has left us with examples of His love towards those who are faithful to Him. I may never see a bird of Paradise in Texas, or anywhere else, but I do know this fact, I will be in Paradise for God has promised that to us. Our friends and family are watching us, will we sink under the rain or rise above? They want to know if our faith is real. It is!

Daily Prayer:

Father I do thank you for the rain, the rain of testing for all you are doing is making me stronger to face the struggles of tomorrow. You mercy and compassion are so welcomed, and You are so loving. I want to be an example of faith so that my life will bless others has that faith represents Jesus living through me. Forgive my weakness in faith.                                                                                     Amen