Covid-19, Blind Trials, Testing & God “The Eyelids of God” By Pastor Dan Kennedy © April 19, 2020 www.pastorkennedy.com Covid-19 is putting the world through very difficult times these days. Why does God allow us to go through trials such as this? Scripture Reading Psalm 11 1 In the Lord I take refuge; how can you say to my soul, “Flee like a bird to your mountain, 2 for behold, the wicked bend the bow; they have fitted their arrow to the string to shoot in the dark at the upright in heart; 3 if the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” 4 The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven; His eyes see, His eyelids test the children of man. 5 The Lord tests the righteous, but His soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence. The Psalmist’s concept of “the Eyelids of God” is unusual since we know that God sees, hears and knows all things – all the time. Even when God’s Eyelids are closed, He still knows all things! Does God know everything that is going on in this pandemic? Does He see me? The “Eyelids” of God are only seen closed from our perspective – when we think God does not see our need, or when we believe God does not hear our cry for His deliverance. “His eyelids test the children of man!” Our faith is what is tested in the most critical way, we still choose to wait and believe in God for His deliverance – in life or through death, even when we may not feel God is aware of what is going on in our lives – when we think He does not see us in the depth of our trials. This message is written to encouraging us to respond in faith to God even when we believe that God is silent, and He does not seem to be concerned about the seriousness of our pain and egregiousness of our problems. Everyone goes through trials (when we think God has His Eyes closed) and right now many may be going through some of the most difficult times of their lives. I believe God uses trial in our life, possibly more than anything else; to draw us to Himself, cause us to look directly into His Face, and to benefit personally for eternity! Let’s see what the Scripture says about times when we think God’s Eyelids are closed! The Apostle Peter almost shouts to us (in his New Testament book) to not be surprised when we are faced with fiery trials – Peter lets us know that God is very aware, even during our deepest trials. He is not only aware; He is actively working through the trial…Eternity will Reveal that fact! 1 Peter 4 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you…. 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good. Trials Force Us to Look at God Trials require us to look past ourselves and squarely at God, because we have no one else to look too when we are in a desperate situation. When we look at God, we can either blame Him for the trial and its immediate negative consequence in our life (which is what most folks normally do), or we can look beyond the immediate negative consequences and see the eternal dimensions associated with the trial. In doing so, we can choose to trust God to carry us through the trial. Trials force us to take an eternal glimpse of reality. What does a man or woman accomplish that will stand the test of time and eternity? I believe the trial of our faithtests the reality of our faith and reveals what our faith really looks like in the sight of God. Everyone Faces Eternity… The Mysterious River of Life Life is like a huge, unstoppable river -- deep and gentle at first, moving in almost imperceptible motion, but ever unrelentingly flowing forward. All the souls of the world find themselves confined between its banks. As it flows, those so constrained may gleefully play in the warm and soothing water, calling to one another, splashing each other, fishing quietly, or lazily lying back and drifting to who knows where, under the glowing sun on bright summer days. Sometimes the water passes through murky, polluted discharges, foul with debris and waste, which poison unsuspecting voyagers with virulent sicknesses. Sometimes dark, cold rain clouds cause the drifting masses to huddle together for warmth and protection. Sometimes the unprepared are bombarded with the atrocities of war, famine, destitute abandonment, homelessness, hideous abuse, and Covid-19! No matter through what circumstances of joy or despair affecting those so destined to be upon this amazing earth, the giant river of life continues to flow. It keeps pressing on, until it becomes more aggressively possessive in its undertow; rushing more determinedly toward its final surge; and, then in a giant rainbow cascade with frightening speed and violent turbulence, it thrusts all humankind, each in unique individual completeness, over its brilliant but terrifying waterfall...into eternity! Trials reveal the depth of the reality of our faith that will be evidenced throughout eternity! The trial of our faith tests the reality of our faith and reveals what our faith really looks like in the sight of God. That is why God allows trials to most often be the most clarifying barometer of the reality of our faith. “Blind Trials” in the Medical Field There are at least three tests in the medical profession that doctors and pharmaceutical companies use even right now with Covid-19, to validate the effectiveness of their treatment for certain illnesses. 1. Open Trials Both the doctor and patient know each step in the medication or treatment. There are no secrets, placebos or withholding of information to either party about any aspect of the planned treatment. 2. Blind Trials A “blind trial” is the treatment of a patient with either a real medication, or placebo (a look-alike medicine which has no medical value), with only the doctor who knows what is real and what is fake – who controls the treatment of a large sampling of patients, none of whom know whether or not they are taking the real or look-alike medicine or treatment. The reason for this treatment is to see if the valid medicine actually accomplishes what it is supposed to do, when compared with results from non-medicine look-alikes. 3. Double Blind Trials In “double blind trials” neither the doctor administering the medication, nor those in the test group of patients know whether or not they are receiving real medication or placebos. Only a neutral control group knows the facts about who is receiving the active dosages and who is not and keeps accurate records of the outcomes over a designated period of time. “Blind Trials” in our Spiritual Life Trials in life can be similar to “blind trials.” God knows all things, but we are unable to see clearly, if at all, what we are going through in the maze of the blind “trial”. It will be seen, through our response to the trial, and the outcome of the trial, the evidence of the depth of our faith. Our response to God’s seemingly closed Eyelids can be used by God to reveal many things: · Trials can reveal whether or not we have genuine, saving faith. · Trials cause us to face any known sin in our life and prompt us to live a deeper, more God-honoring spiritual life. · Trials are used by God to Discipline His Children, because of His Love for us! · Trials can ironically, cause the Believer in Christ to be less and less enamored with the things of the world and have more and more longing to draw closer to Christ. · Trials can be a primary means to give the believer in Christ a stronger identity with and appreciation for the Suffering of our Savior…something that Jesus says is important for each believer to experience! · Trials could pay the greatest eternal “dividends” toward our eternal reward, if we respond in a Godly way. · Trials allow us to minister more effectively to others in the “Fellowship of Sufferings” when we Bear Each Other’s Burdens. · Ultimately Trials cause us to Reflect the Grace and Glory of God! Trials are the one unifying element in all these aspects leading to a deeper spiritual walk and a more blessed eternal life! · Trials can reveal whether or not we have genuine, saving faith. 1 Peter 1 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. · Trials cause us to face any known sin in our life and prompt us to live a deeper, more God-honoring spiritual life. James 1 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. Many times God uses trial in our life to strongly prompt us to do what our weak human will or carnal nature keep resisting our willing spirit to accomplish (“our spirit is willing but our flesh is weak”), in our needed Spiritual growth toward being like Christ! The Death of a Seed Produces Abundant Life Unless a seed dies, it simply stays a single seed, but if it dies it bears much fruit. John 12 24 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him. Testing often causes death to dreams, hopes and aspirations. While in actuality such death brings profound life. · Trials are used by God to Discipline His Children, because of His Love for us! If God has never disciplined us, we should review the reality of our relationship with God – because none of us are perfect. God disciplines in a variety of ways, if we are His Children, to encourage us to live like He wants us to live. He includes trial in what He allows in our lives. Sometimes we may not know if the trial is discipline or not. In any case, if it deepens our spiritual walk, it reveals the purpose why God has allowed it in our life. 1 Corinthians 11 32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world. Hebrews 12 5…“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. 6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” 7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons… 10 …he (God) disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. · Trials can ironically, cause the Believer in Christ to be less and less enamored with the things of the world and have more and more longing to draw closer to Christ. (Trials might take worldly things from us – but only to reveal their inadequacies, and ultimately their unfulfilling, temporary status) Hebrews 11 8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God. 13 These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. 14 For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. 24 By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, 25choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26 He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking to the reward. · Trials can be a primary means to give the believer in Christ a stronger identity with and appreciation for the Suffering of our Savior…something that Jesus says is important for each believer to experience! o What are some of the reasons why this could be? We tend to identify with those who go through similar experiences as us. The deeper the experience, the more closely we identify with those who have similar depth of experience. It seems the closest and deepest human dynamic that we can experience, in which we can relate to God, may be suffering. 1 Peter 4 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. Romans 8 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. John 15 20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ Colossians 1 24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church… The Incomprehensible “Perfect through Suffering” expectation for the Founder of our Salvation Hebrews 2:9–11 9 But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. 10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. 11 For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers…. Hebrews 5:8–9 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. 9 And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him,…. Hebrews 13:11–14 11 For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. 12 So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. 13 Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. 14 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. Philippians 3 10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead. How can we know the deepness of God’s love for us, unless we understand, through participation, a certain depth of the sufferings of Christ? · Trials could pay the greatest eternal “dividends” toward our eternal reward, if we respond in a Godly way. If they could be measured, between commitment, service or trial, what gives the greatest eternal reward? James 5:10–11 10 As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. 1 Peter 2:19–24 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. o Does our commitment to God give the highest eternal benefit? Our “commitment” to God is very meaningful, but we cannot count on “commitment” to be the primary source of eternal reward. o Does performance of our service to God give the greatest eternal benefit? God gives us gifts so we can fulfill our service to Him, so how can we count on using gifts He gave us to give us the greatest rewards for eternity? 1 Corinthians 4:7 7 For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not? God is concerned with the condition of our heart in our service for Him; He is not the least impressed by service performed for Him, even at the highest levels – if performed in carnality! Ephesians 6:6-8 6 not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. o Does Godly response to trials through which we are taken, have the potential of paying the greatest spiritual reward in eternity? Life’s trials are tamper-proof, “blind trials;” they are faith-revealers – one cannot “fake it” when going through fiery trial! Of these three: Commitment to God, Service for God, or Trial, what gives us the greatest eternal reward? I believe the Scripture makes it clear that trial gives us the greatest potential for being the greatest definer of our faith (you cannot fake it through fiery trial!), and thus it is this means of tamper-proof, faith-revealer that God uses in our life to most conform us to His Image – and, I believe, to benefit us with its greatest reward throughout eternity. Why otherwise would the Apostle James say in his book, “Rejoice, when you meet trials of various kinds”? (James 1:2) Look these up in your Bible to see the fullest context of the verses… James 1:12 12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. 2 Corinthians 4:17, 18 17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, 18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. 1 Peter 1:3-9 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. · Trials allow us to minister more effectively to others in the “Fellowship of Sufferings” when we Bear Each Other’s Burdens. Through trials that we have experienced, the Lord allows us to effectively minister to others, to those who have experienced severe physical trial and severe emotional pain. Those who experience pandemic viruses, cancer, divorce, physical pain and a host of other relational, emotional, or physical trauma, can relate deeply with each other IF they have cast themselves upon God in the deepness of their trial and have made God their Refuge. After a time of healing, or even through the process of healing, often those so severely affected can meaningfully care for others from the depth of their understanding, perception and Godly love. Fellowship of Sufferings and Bearing Each Other’s Burdens Galatians 6:1-3 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. · Ultimately Trials can cause us to Reflect the Grace and Glory of God! Matthew 5:14-16 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. God-honoring response to trial does not go unnoticed in a world full of self-centeredness, pride and temporal insecurity. One who trusts in the Lord is like a light shining on a hill, pointing to God’s stable Refuge in the deepest times of distress and trouble! The world does not have that kind of true refuge, only false premises! Death itself is the ultimate and decisive conclusion for each person whether through trial or a long life of health. Only hope in Christ – in life or in death, gives certain, stable and eternal hope. Our response to God’s seemingly closed Eyelids can be used by God to reveal many things: · Trials can reveal whether or not we have genuine, saving faith. · Trials cause us to face any known sin in our life and prompt us to live a deeper, more God-honoring spiritual life. · Trials are used by God to Discipline His Children, because of His Love for us! · Trials can ironically, cause the Believer in Christ to be less and less enamored with the things of the world and have more and more longing to draw closer to Christ. · Trials can be a primary means to give the believer in Christ a stronger identity with and appreciation for the Suffering of our Savior…something that Jesus says is important for each believer to experience! · Trials could pay the greatest eternal “dividends” toward our eternal reward, if we respond in a Godly way. · Trials allow us to minister more effectively to others in the “Fellowship of Sufferings” when we Bear Each Other’s Burdens. · Ultimately Trials cause us to Reflect the Grace and Glory of God! Conclusion What do we do when Covid-19 or any trial comes into our life? Does it destroy us piece by piece, or does it become more eternally valuable to us than the purest reserve of earthly gold, as we turn more closely to God through its purification? Those who have genuine faith, find authentication of their faith confirmed through Godly response to trials. Godly response to the trial of our faith causes authentic faith to be strengthened! The strengthening of our faith causes the weakness of our carnal nature to be challenged, put be to death and overcome, by God’s Grace and power of His Holy Spirit. Dying to ourselves and identifying with Christ through trial, gives us the profound privilege of identifying with the fellowship of Christ’s Suffering and more fully bearing the burdens of those in His Body around us. Living victoriously over sin and identifying with Christ in His Death and Resurrection, with caring fellowship in His Body, allows fruitful service to God to be even more spiritually empowered and bountiful, through His Holy Spirit. Spirit empowered fruitfulness allows greater unencumbered blessing to flow through Christ’s Body and into the lost world around us, all the while rewarding us with heavenly treasures that are eternal and can never be taken away! If we have received genuine Salvation through the Redemption that is in Christ Jesus, a Salvation undeterred by fiery trial; if our fellowship with believers becomes stronger and deeper; if our purpose in this lost world is more abundant; and, if we are eternally blessed with unfading Spiritual rewards through trial, then the “blind trials” of our faith are of immense value in the life of the true believer in Jesus Christ! James 1 12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. What are the trials that God has entrusted to your life, to ultimately bring Glory to Him; to deepen your walk with the Lord; to cause you to long for The City whose Architect and Builder is God; and, to potential bless you with everlasting reward? God knows how to deliver us from trial and how to reserve the ungodly for the Day of Judgment! 2 Peter 2 9 …the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment…. Isn’t it interesting that enduring songs throughout the centuries have spoken of God’s victory for His Children through the testing of fiery trial? How Firm a Foundation By John Rippon How firm a foundation, you saints of the Lord, Is laid for your faith in His excellent Word! What more can He say than to you He has said, To you, who to Jesus for refuge have fled? In every condition, in sickness, in health; In poverty’s vale, or abounding in wealth; At home and abroad, on the land, on the sea, As your days may demand, shall your strength ever be. Fear not, I Am with you, O be not dismayed, For I Am your God and will still give you aid; I’ll strengthen and help you, and cause you to stand Upheld by My righteous, omnipotent Hand. When through fiery trials your pathways shall lie, My grace, all sufficient, shall be your supply; The flame shall not hurt you; I only design Your dross to consume, and your gold to refine. The soul that on Jesus has leaned for repose, I will not, I will not desert to its foes; That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake, I’ll never, no never, no never forsake. Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, I may be going through the greatest trial in my life right now, I have no way of knowing, but through this, I am choosing to trust in You! I call on the Lord Jesus Christ for His cleansing of my sin and my Redemption before God, through Jesus’ blood shed on the cross; for His endurance and patience through this trial; for His Peace that passes understanding to keep my heart and mind; and, for the accomplishment of His will and purpose in my life. I don’t know if I will physically survive through this trial, but in life or in death I flee to You to be my Refuge, my Fortress, The One in whom I Trust! My hope is in You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Covid-19, Blind Trials, Testing & God

“The Eyelids of God”

By Pastor Dan Kennedy

www.pastorkennedy.com

Covid-19 is putting the world through very difficult times these days.

Why does God allow us to go through trials such as this?

Scripture Reading

Psalm 11

1 In the Lord I take refuge;

how can you say to my soul,

“Flee like a bird to your mountain,

2 for behold, the wicked bend the bow;

they have fitted their arrow to the string

to shoot in the dark at the upright in heart;

3 if the foundations are destroyed,

what can the righteous do?”

4 The Lord is in his holy temple;

the Lord’s throne is in heaven;

His eyes see, His eyelids test the children of man.

5 The Lord tests the righteous,

but His soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.

The Psalmist’s concept of “the Eyelids of God” is unusual since we know that God sees, hears and knows all things – all the time. Even when God’s Eyelids are closed, He still knows all things! Does God know everything that is going on in this pandemic? Does He see me?

The “Eyelids” of God are only seen closed from our perspective – when we think God does not see our need, or when we believe God does not hear our cry for His deliverance. “His eyelids test the children of man!” Our faith is what is tested in the most critical way, we still choose to wait and believe in God for His deliverance – in life or through death, even when we may not feel God is aware of what is going on in our lives – when we think He does not see us in the depth of our trials. This message is written to encouraging us to respond in faith to God even when we believe that God is silent, and He does not seem to be concerned about the seriousness of our pain and egregiousness of our problems.

Everyone goes through trials (when we think God has His Eyes closed) and right now many may be going through some of the most difficult times of their lives. I believe God uses trial in our life, possibly more than anything else; to draw us to Himself, cause us to look directly into His Face, and to benefit personally for eternity!

Let’s see what the Scripture says about times when we think God’s Eyelids are closed!

The Apostle Peter almost shouts to us (in his New Testament book) to not be surprised when we are faced with fiery trials – Peter lets us know that God is very aware, even during our deepest trials. He is not only aware; He is actively working through the trial…Eternity will Reveal that fact!

1 Peter 4

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you…. 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

Trials Force Us to Look at God

Trials require us to look past ourselves and squarely at God, because we have no one else to look too when we are in a desperate situation. When we look at God, we can either blame Him for the trial and its immediate negative consequence in our life (which is what most folks normally do), or we can look beyond the immediate negative consequences and see the eternal dimensions associated with the trial. In doing so, we can choose to trust God to carry us through the trial.

Trials force us to take an eternal glimpse of reality.

What does a man or woman accomplish that will stand the test of time and eternity? I believe the trial of our faithtests the reality of our faith and reveals what our faith really looks like in the sight of God.

Everyone Faces Eternity…

The Mysterious River of Life

Life is like a huge, unstoppable river -- deep and gentle at first, moving in almost imperceptible motion, but ever unrelentingly flowing forward. All the souls of the world find themselves confined between its banks.

As it flows, those so constrained may gleefully play in the warm and soothing water, calling to one another, splashing each other, fishing quietly, or lazily lying back and drifting to who knows where, under the glowing sun on bright summer days.

Sometimes the water passes through murky, polluted discharges, foul with debris and waste, which poison unsuspecting voyagers with virulent sicknesses. Sometimes dark, cold rain clouds cause the drifting masses to huddle together for warmth and protection. Sometimes the unprepared are bombarded with the atrocities of war, famine, destitute abandonment, homelessness, hideous abuse, and Covid-19!

No matter through what circumstances of joy or despair affecting those so destined to be upon this amazing earth, the giant river of life continues to flow.

It keeps pressing on, until it becomes more aggressively possessive in its undertow; rushing more determinedly toward its final surge; and, then in a giant rainbow cascade with frightening speed and violent turbulence, it thrusts all humankind, each in unique individual completeness, over its brilliant but terrifying waterfall...into eternity!

Trials reveal the depth of the reality of our faith that will be evidenced throughout eternity!

The trial of our faith tests the reality of our faith and reveals what our faith really looks like in the sight of God. That is why God allows trials to most often be the most clarifying barometer of the reality of our faith.

“Blind Trials” in the Medical Field

There are at least three tests in the medical profession that doctors and pharmaceutical companies use even right now with Covid-19, to validate the effectiveness of their treatment for certain illnesses.

1. Open Trials

Both the doctor and patient know each step in the medication or treatment. There are no secrets, placebos or withholding of information to either party about any aspect of the planned treatment.

2. Blind Trials

A “blind trial” is the treatment of a patient with either a real medication, or placebo (a look-alike medicine which has no medical value), with only the doctor who knows what is real and what is fake – who controls the treatment of a large sampling of patients, none of whom know whether or not they are taking the real or look-alike medicine or treatment. The reason for this treatment is to see if the valid medicine actually accomplishes what it is supposed to do, when compared with results from non-medicine look-alikes.

3. Double Blind Trials

In “double blind trials” neither the doctor administering the medication, nor those in the test group of patients know whether or not they are receiving real medication or placebos. Only a neutral control group knows the facts about who is receiving the active dosages and who is not and keeps accurate records of the outcomes over a designated period of time.

“Blind Trials” in our Spiritual Life

Trials in life can be similar to “blind trials.” God knows all things, but we are unable to see clearly, if at all, what we are going through in the maze of the blind “trial”.

It will be seen, through our response to the trial, and the outcome of the trial, the evidence of the depth of our faith.

Our response to God’s seemingly closed Eyelids can be used by God to reveal many things:

· Trials can reveal whether or not we have genuine, saving faith.

· Trials cause us to face any known sin in our life and prompt us to live a deeper, more God-honoring spiritual life.

· Trials are used by God to Discipline His Children, because of His Love for us!

· Trials can ironically, cause the Believer in Christ to be less and less enamored with the things of the world and have more and more longing to draw closer to Christ.

· Trials can be a primary means to give the believer in Christ a stronger identity with and appreciation for the Suffering of our Savior…something that Jesus says is important for each believer to experience!

· Trials could pay the greatest eternal “dividends” toward our eternal reward, if we respond in a Godly way.

· Trials allow us to minister more effectively to others in the “Fellowship of Sufferings” when we Bear Each Other’s Burdens.

· Ultimately Trials cause us to Reflect the Grace and Glory of God!

Trials are the one unifying element in all these aspects leading to a deeper spiritual walk and a more blessed eternal life!

· Trials can reveal whether or not we have genuine, saving faith.

1 Peter 1

6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

· Trials cause us to face any known sin in our life and prompt us to live a deeper, more God-honoring spiritual life.

James 1

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Many times God uses trial in our life to strongly prompt us to do what our weak human will or carnal nature keep resisting our willing spirit to accomplish (“our spirit is willing but our flesh is weak”), in our needed Spiritual growth toward being like Christ!

The Death of a Seed Produces Abundant Life

Unless a seed dies, it simply stays a single seed, but if it dies it bears much fruit.

John 12

24 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.

Testing often causes death to dreams, hopes and aspirations. While in actuality such death brings profound life.

· Trials are used by God to Discipline His Children, because of His Love for us!

If God has never disciplined us, we should review the reality of our relationship with God – because none of us are perfect.

God disciplines in a variety of ways, if we are His Children, to encourage us to live like He wants us to live. He includes trial in what He allows in our lives. Sometimes we may not know if the trial is discipline or not. In any case, if it deepens our spiritual walk, it reveals the purpose why God has allowed it in our life.

1 Corinthians 11

32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.

Hebrews 12

5…“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the

Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him.

6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons…

10 …he (God) disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

· Trials can ironically, cause the Believer in Christ to be less and less enamored with the things of the world and have more and more longing to draw closer to Christ.

(Trials might take worldly things from us – but only to reveal their inadequacies, and ultimately their unfulfilling, temporary status)

Hebrews 11

8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. 10 For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.

13 These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. 14 For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.

24 By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, 25choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. 26 He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking to the reward.

o What are some of the reasons why this could be?

• We tend to identify with those who go through similar experiences as us.
• The deeper the experience, the more closely we identify with those who have similar depth of experience.
• It seems the closest and deepest human dynamic that we can experience, in which we can relate to God, may be suffering.

1 Peter 4

Romans 8

16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

John 15

20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’

Colossians 1

24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church…

The Incomprehensible “Perfect through Suffering” expectation for the Founder of our Salvation

Hebrews 2:9–11

9 But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.

10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. 11 For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers….

Hebrews 5:8–9

8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. 9 And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him,….

Hebrews 13:11–14

11 For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. 12 So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. 13 Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. 14 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.

Philippians 3

10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

How can we know the deepness of God’s love for us, unless we understand, through participation, a certain depth of the sufferings of Christ?

· Trials could pay the greatest eternal “dividends” toward our eternal reward, if we respond in a Godly way.

If they could be measured, between commitment, service or trial, what gives the greatest eternal reward?

James 5:10–11

10 As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.

1 Peter 2:19–24

19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

o Does our commitment to God give the highest eternal benefit?

• Our “commitment” to God is very meaningful, but we cannot count on “commitment” to be the primary source of eternal reward.

o Does performance of our service to God give the greatest eternal benefit?

• God gives us gifts so we can fulfill our service to Him, so how can we count on using gifts He gave us to give us the greatest rewards for eternity?

1 Corinthians 4:7

7 For who makes you different from anyone else?

What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?

• God is concerned with the condition of our heart in our service for Him; He is not the least impressed by service performed for Him, even at the highest levels – if performed in carnality!

Ephesians 6:6-8

6 not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.

o Does Godly response to trials through which we are taken, have the potential of paying the greatest spiritual reward in eternity?

Life’s trials are tamper-proof, “blind trials;” they are faith-revealers – one cannot “fake it” when going through fiery trial!

Of these three: Commitment to God, Service for God, or Trial, what gives us the greatest eternal reward? I believe the Scripture makes it clear that trial gives us the greatest potential for being the greatest definer of our faith (you cannot fake it through fiery trial!), and thus it is this means of tamper-proof, faith-revealer that God uses in our life to most conform us to His Image – and, I believe, to benefit us with its greatest reward throughout eternity. Why otherwise would the Apostle James say in his book, “Rejoice, when you meet trials of various kinds”? (James 1:2)

Look these up in your Bible to see the fullest context of the verses…

James 1:12

12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

2 Corinthians 4:17, 18

17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, 18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

1 Peter 1:3-9

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

· Trials allow us to minister more effectively to others in the “Fellowship of Sufferings” when we Bear Each Other’s Burdens.

Through trials that we have experienced, the Lord allows us to effectively minister to others, to those who have experienced severe physical trial and severe emotional pain. Those who experience pandemic viruses, cancer, divorce, physical pain and a host of other relational, emotional, or physical trauma, can relate deeply with each other IF they have cast themselves upon God in the deepness of their trial and have made God their Refuge. After a time of healing, or even through the process of healing, often those so severely affected can meaningfully care for others from the depth of their understanding, perception and Godly love.

Fellowship of Sufferings and Bearing Each Other’s Burdens

Galatians 6:1-3

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

· Ultimately Trials can cause us to Reflect the Grace and Glory of God!

Matthew 5:14-16

14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

God-honoring response to trial does not go unnoticed in a world full of self-centeredness, pride and temporal insecurity. One who trusts in the Lord is like a light shining on a hill, pointing to God’s stable Refuge in the deepest times of distress and trouble! The world does not have that kind of true refuge, only false premises! Death itself is the ultimate and decisive conclusion for each person whether through trial or a long life of health. Only hope in Christ – in life or in death, gives certain, stable and eternal hope.