Testing
A Devotion
The Goodsoil Discipleship Ministry
By Bro. Andy Madonio
December 29, 1999
But when envoys were sent by the rulers of Babylon to ask him about the miraculous sign that had occurred in the land, God left him to test him and to know everything that was in his heart.
2 Chronicles 32:31.
In preparation for a big exam, many things are done to prepare the student. During this time, the student has classmates to study alongside, others of whom he will share in the opportunity of proving themselves. He also has access, for a time, to the instructor and to tutors to clarify the more elusive points. Then there are the class notes and textbooks to consult and review as well. In all, many resources are available at the student's disposal to assist in preparing for the coming exam.
When the day of testing arrives however, surrounding support structure, those building and nurturing elements, are removed. It is the student, all alone, who must prove himself. Only by undergoing this test alone, with himself, may he give evidence of what he has truly learned.
At exam time there are no books or notes, no teachers or tutors or fellow classmates. The student is alone, as it must be, to prove what he alone is capable of.
Has God "left" you? His Word says that He will never leave you or forsake you. And yet, a testing inherently requires a proving of the student, not the student with all the assistance he can muster. That is not proof of what has been placed inside the student, and it is this inside element of growth that is so vital.
Hezekiah came to class one day and took an exam alone. God had prepared him in so many ways, from his childhood, thru terror and adversity and challenges and other testings, up until the day of this very exam. When God places a test before you, trust Him. It would be difficult (and very unwise indeed!) to accuse Him of not properly preparing you. Trust Him! He has not abandoned you; He has merely stepped back a pace or two to allow you time and space to complete the exam. It is, after all, your heart He is preparing not a trivial matter by any means! It's important to Him! He will surely be there when you complete this test, and if more tutelage is required, He will arrange for it. His tests must come, be His leaving will not.
