Day 132: Tested to Grow – God’s Purpose in Allowing Adversity

Biblical Principle: Absolute Truth from God’s Word

When we become children of God, many expect a life free of difficulty—but Scripture paints a very different picture. In Judges 3:1-7, we find a profound truth: God intentionally left certain enemies in the land of Israel. Why? To test His people—not so He could learn about them, but so they could learn about themselves.

“Now these are the nations which the LORD left, to prove Israel by them…” (Judges 3:1)

The test wasn't academic—it was spiritual. Would Israel obey God's commandments in the presence of temptation and difficulty? Sadly, they failed. They adopted the customs of the ungodly, intermarried with pagan nations, and ultimately “did evil in the sight of the LORD.” The consequences were not delayed. Israel's disobedience led to oppression, sorrow, and the loss of God’s favor.

But there's something powerful here: God’s testing was never meant to destroy—it was meant to reveal. It revealed Israel’s heart, weaknesses, and desperate need for God's guidance and strength. In the same way, God allows challenges in our lives—not to punish, but to prepare us for victorious living.

Practical Application: Works That Apply Biblical Principle

James gives us insight into how we should face these trials:

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” (James 1:2-3)

The trials we face are tools in God’s hands. They refine us, strengthen our faith, and teach us to depend on Him. When we see our failures, we are given a chance to humble ourselves and grow. When we see our victories, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness.

This is the path to victorious Christian living—not a life free from trouble but a life in which God uses the troubles to shape us into people of strength, wisdom, and unshakable faith.

If you face adversity today, don’t be discouraged. Ask yourself: What is God showing me about my heart? Where do I need to trust Him more? Let the test become a tool for transformation.

“But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” (James 1:4)