THE TEST BEFORE THE TESTIMONY (Cont’d)
GENESIS 22:1-18(KJV)
“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” — Hebrews 12:6 (KJV)
We have looked at how tests reveal our hearts, challenge our faith, prepare us in secret, and teach us the importance of our responses.
Today, we will look at three more lessons from the tests before the testimony.
5). DO NOT FAIL THE TEST OF CHARACTER WHILE WAITING FOR THE TESTIMONY OF PROMOTION
Genesis 39:9 (KJV)
“There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”
Joseph refused to sin with Potiphar’s wife, even though his decision eventually led to a false accusation and imprisonment.
He understood that pleasing God was more important than satisfying a temporary desire.
His experience teaches us that doing what is right does not always produce an immediate reward. Sometimes, maintaining your integrity may appear to delay your progress, but you must never sacrifice your values to obtain an opportunity.
Do not lie to get a position, manipulate people to gain influence, or compromise your faith to achieve success.
NEVER SACRIFICE YOUR CHARACTER IN PURSUIT OF THE TESTIMONY YOU DESIRE. NEVER!
6). THE TEST IS NOT ALWAYS A SIGN OF REJECTION
Hebrews 12:6 (KJV)
“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.”
Sometimes, when we experience difficulties, we begin to wonder whether God has forgotten or rejected us. However, a difficult season does not automatically mean that God has abandoned you.
The Bible teaches that God corrects those He loves, but the story of Job also shows us that not every hardship is punishment for wrongdoing.
When you face challenges, examine your heart, learn from God’s Word, and seek his wisdom. Do not condemn yourself or others simply because life becomes difficult.
Remember Joseph, who remained in prison despite his integrity. Genesis 39:21 tells us that the Lord was with him even there.
Your circumstances may be difficult, but difficulty alone does not mean that God has rejected you.
7). AFTER THE TEST, REMAIN FAITHFUL TO GOD
Genesis 41:39–41 (KJV)
Child of God, This is one of the most important lesson you have to learn in your walk with God.
Joseph moved from prison to a position of authority in Egypt. After years of hardship, Pharaoh entrusted him with great responsibility.
But Joseph’s elevation was not merely about his personal success. God used his position and wisdom to help preserve lives during the famine.
This teaches us that divine lifting should be more than an opportunity to enjoy success; it should also be an opportunity to serve others.
When God blesses you, remain humble. When he gives you influence, use it wisely. When your prayers are answered, do not forget THE ONE who sustained you while you waited.
And if you are still waiting for your testimony, remain faithful. Your relationship with God should not depend entirely on how quickly your circumstances change.
Do not allow the joy of your testimony make you forget the God who sustained you through your test.
I am sure that we have learnt in the course of this teaching that;
- The test before the testimony is not simply about what you must endure before you can celebrate. It is also about learning to walk with God faithfully, maintaining your integrity, and allowing his Word to shape your decisions.
- Do not compromise your character while waiting for your opportunity. Do not assume that hardship means rejection and when your season of celebration comes, do not forget THE ONE who sustained you.
Child of God, I will round off with this;
The greatest evidence of growth is not only that your circumstances have changed, but that your heart has remained faithful to God through every season.
Good Morning THE BELIEVER!
HAPPY TUESDAY!
What a time we are having!
