Good morning. It's Thursday, November 17, 2022. Ever get tired of being tested? In Bible College, we had a Greek test EVERY morning at 8 AM sharp. However, knowing full well that a test would greet me each morning, I studied, remembered, and practiced more. And at the end, I got straight "A's." So, how are you doing with the tests in life? In today's reading, we will find another who was often tested; let's see the results. Read on …
Today's Reading:
2 Corinthians 7,8,9,10
Scripture
“And we are sending along with [Titus] the brother who is praised by all the churches for his service to the gospel… whom we have often tested and found diligent in many things …” (2 Corinthians 8:18, 22)
Observation
He was “famous,” but he remains un-named: “the brother who is praised by all the churches.” This “brother” who is sent with Titus is well-known in the things of the Gospel, but to this day, we don’t know who this famous sidekick was! However, one thing stood out for me. Maybe it was simply an aside for the writer, but it is a poignant reminder for us all. Our brother will be forever known as the one who was “often tested and found diligent in many things.”
We can get tired of being tested; I know I do —testy people, testy drivers, situations that drain me … and complainers all wear me down. I sometimes wonder when the tests will be over! But here in the Scripture, our un-named friend was tested many times … and found diligent.
He passed all the tests!
Application
There have been seasons when I became battle-wearied and didn’t want to go through any more stupid tests. So I started looking for ways out rather than ways through and side doors instead of open doors. I knew full well that God would give me rest spots and calm oases when needed, but I began mistaking those refueling breaks as my home. I knew I needed to rest up and refuel, but I couldn’t make the mistake of thinking that my goal in life was to get filled, only to waste away somewhere under a coconut tree. Instead, I needed to refuel… then re-engage so that one day, I, too, might be found “diligent.”
Prayer
Lord, thank You for this reminder. It’s a huge lesson that’s sometimes understood only when reflecting backward. Please help me to remember that faith is living in advance, what I will only understand in reverse. Please walk with me. Coach me, O Spirit of God.
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