Read Romans 12 and 2 Timothy 2.
Tests. Life is full of them. Primary and secondary grades. College and trade schools. On the job trainings and competency tests. Lots and lots of tests.
In our routine test prep, let's remember that as Christians, the bar we are measured with is set by God: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2, ESV). Let's let these trials of life strengthen us in our walk with Jesus, believing and trusting that he will lead us in the right direction along the way and to knowledge that we need.
In Paul's second letter to Timothy, he wrote: "You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, / and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. / Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. / No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. / An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. / It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. / Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything" (2 Timothy 2:1-7, ESV).
In the face of any tests and trials that we encounter, it is also important to remember to look outside of ourselves, outside of our own personal stressors. Students, children, teens, teachers, coaches, family members and other adults around us face challenges as well. Smile. It's okay. Seek peace in Christ. Lead by example in how you walk through life's obstacles. Can you bring peace to others in the process as well?
Let's take the advice of James: "Count it all joy, my brothers and sisters, / when you meet trials of various kinds, / for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness, / And let steadfastness have its full , that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing" (1 James 1:2-4, ESV).
PRAYER: Lord, thank you for strengthening us during our seasons of testing. Please continue to lead us on paths that bring glory to you and help us to support those around us, especially our students. In your name we pray, Amen.
