During my 23 years of education, taking tests was a regular activity. These tests evaluated my aptitude and knowledge. As I moved into medical school and emergency medicine, testing increasingly assessed not only my knowledge base but also my skill level – my ability to apply that knowledge. Knowing facts, only, did little good when faced with saving a life in the emergency department.

Often my spiritual understanding outpaces my spiritual responses. For instance my failure to apply my knowledge of the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) can have devastating results. God seeks proof of my ability to apply my knowledge. To this end, He tests me in various ways.

"The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul." (Deut. 13:3) 

What to do?

In my preparation for my medical skills testing, nothing substituted for practice. I am guessing the same holds true for skills in my spiritual life. Practice, practice, practice!!!

I am trusting God will find us ready on test day. Will you join me in daily practice?

 

Sharing the journey with you,

Bob Snyder