Proverbs 17:3 (ESV) —
3 The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold,
and the Lord tests hearts.
NOTE: Why does the Lord test hearts since he already knows our heart? The answer is that the Lord test hearts so that we can know our own heart. We don't truly know ourselves. David makes that very clear in Ps 139.
Psalm 139:23–24 (ESV) —
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!
24 And see if there be any grievous way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting!
It is a good thing when God tests hearts because it reveals to us our inner life. We see, for good or bad, what we are really like when we are tested. We can put up facades without even knowing what we are doing, but when suffering comes or conflict or disappointment, we meet our real selves. It is not a pretty picture. Which is why we need to examine ourselves during times of testing and ask the hard questions. We should not be numb or withdrawn, we need to ask questions like: Why did I respond the way I did? Why did I not do what I should have done? Why was I slow to respond? Why was I quick, too quick to respond? What was my motivation down deep? Was I concerned for others, or how I looked or whether my little "kingdom" was being torn from me?
PONDER:
- When tough times come, do I look in the mirror at my responses?
- Can I see what God is trying to teach me during times of testing?
PRAYER: Father, I am a poor judge of myself. I probably see myself in too good a light, but I know I struggle. Help me to grow. Help me to care for others first. Help me to keep my focus on you.
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