The Test
No one likes to be tested. In fact, one of the things I used to dread most about freshmen year was a test. There were even times, when a scheduled exam would come up, that I would be filled with anxiety to the point of losing sleep.
In the beginning I would fail some tests miserably, while on others I would barely make a passing grade. But as the semester progressed and I made the choice to review the material, form study groups and make index cards, I began building my battle strategy. I knew academic success required diligence, perseverance, and practice, so instead of letting the test conquer me, I aimed to conquer it. There's nothing better than leaving an exam knowing that you were prepared and did your best. Similarly, in my spiritual life, the word of God is where I go for my battle strategy when life's tests prove to be too great.
This season of waiting and trusting God in my singleness has been filled with a series of tests and self-evaluation accompanied by the feeling of being utterly uncomfortable with not being in control. Dying to self is never easy. I imagine Jesus must have felt the same way at different points throughout his ministry leading up to his crucifixion. God, can this test be over? This has often been my plea, as I sometimes find myself desiring the reward without the test.
The first and most important lesson I have learned from being single is that God requires total surrender of my will and full dependence on Him. I fully understand how hard it is to walk away from a relationship that you know is not God's best for your life. I have also been one to take matters into my own hands thinking that if I bargain with God, He will give me what I want-even though sometimes going after what I wanted cost me more in the end than if I had waited and trusted in God's plans for my life. Nevertheless, life's tests pushed me to grow and blossom into the woman God has called me to be and to work on His purpose for my life. What God has for me is far better than anything I can imagine, and I can trust His timing, as it is always perfect.
“My brethern, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Sisters, I cannot promise you that this season of singleness will be easy, nor can I promise you that the testing of your faith will not push you to cry out to God for relief. You may feel alone, as I often do, and be utterly uncomfortable, but know this: the purpose of whatever test you may be facing is not only that you will pass the test, but also that by staying the course, you will be made complete in Christ lacking nothing. God completes us, not our boo.
Putting total trust in God without jumping ship and doing our own thing can be hard. Sisters, I am right there with you. I am in my own season of testing now, but as uncomfortable as it may be, I want His will to be done in my life. Therefore, my battle strategy for this season has been one of prayer, fasting, journaling and standing still.
Just remember that every test must come to an end, so be patient and stay the course.
Stay blessed & fabulous
You sister in Waiting,
Danisha
Journal Questions:
In what areas of your life is God asking for complete surrender to His will?
How is God's test of your faith preparing you to be a better follower of Christ?
What lessons have the testing of your faith taught you about God's sovereignty as it relates to this season you are presently facing?
What is your battle strategy for the tests you are facing?
Recommendations:
Books:
-"Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both our Hearts and Our Minds" by Jen Wilkin
-"Fervent: A Woman's Battle Plan to Serious, Specific and Strategic Prayer" by Priscilla Shirer