Trials Test the Heart

Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations we don’t fully understand or appreciate. More often than not, these circumstances arise from our own choices—rooted in a lack of wisdom or foresight. But there are also times when we’re faced with trials that seem to have no clear origin, no obvious cause. In these moments, after honest reflection, we might wonder: Why am I going through this?

During such challenging times—what we often call “trials”—important spiritual questions arise. What can God see in us during these moments? And perhaps even more importantly, what do we learn about our own conversion, faith, and spiritual maturity?

The book of Deuteronomy offers deep insight into the purpose behind these trials:

"And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not."

— Deuteronomy 8:2 (NKJV)

God led Israel through the wilderness for forty years—not aimlessly, but with divine intention. It was a time of humbling, a time of testing, a time to reveal what truly lived in their hearts. Would they trust Him? Would they obey?

Their journey through the wilderness is more than ancient history. The book of Hebrews tells us that their example holds relevance for us today, as we walk our own path toward God’s promised Kingdom:

"Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it.

For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it."

— Hebrews 4:1–2 (NKJV)

Though they heard God’s word, it didn’t benefit them. Why? Because it wasn’t mixed with faith. The root issue was disbelief. They lacked the trust to follow God when the path was uncertain.

"Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God;

but exhort one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end."

— Hebrews 3:12–14 (NKJV)

This brings us to an essential question: What about us?

When we face trials, God sees what is in our hearts. But do we? It's easy to focus on tests involving outward obedience—such as Sabbath observance, Holy Days, or tithing. These are meaningful indicators of our belief and commitment. Yet as we grow spiritually, our tests often go deeper—into the realm of our relationships, our character, and the attitudes we harbor toward others.

In these situations, God examines our hearts for forgiveness, mercy, and grace. Are we peacemakers? Can we pray for our enemies? These are not easy traits to exhibit—but they are the spiritual fruits God is cultivating in us through His Holy Spirit.

Jesus said:

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."

— Matthew 5:9 (NKJV)

And He also warned:

"But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment."

— Matthew 5:22 (NKJV)

Even as believers, we may still wrestle with moments of anger, bitterness, or spiritual blindness. But the key is awareness. Are we sensitive to the deeper issues in our hearts? Do we recognize when we fall short—and seek God’s help to change?

Ultimately, our entrance into God’s Kingdom—His rest—is about believing that God can transform our hearts through His Spirit:

"Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience."

— Hebrews 4:11 (NKJV)

As we count the days toward the next Holy Day and reflect on its significance, let us also look forward with hope and diligence—striving for continued spiritual growth and maturity.

May your Sabbath be rich with God’s mercy, grace, and abundant blessings.