WILL YOU STAY THE COURSE (2)?
JUNE 13, 2025
TEXT: “Now these are the nations which the Lord left, to prove Israel by them,…. And they were to prove Israel by them, to know whether they would hearken unto the commandments of the LORD…” (Judges 3:1,4)
Despite the promise of a land overflowing with abundance, the Children of Israel’s chronic tendency to compromise and stray from the path of righteousness incurred the Lord’s displeasure. In His infinite wisdom, God opted to leave some of the nations inhabiting the promised land, intending to use them as a litmus test of the Israelites’ loyalty to His commandments, mirroring the steadfastness of their forefathers. Tragically, the Israelites faltered in this test, indulging in intermarriages with heathen nations, flouting the Lord’s commandments and straying from the path of righteousness. “Therefore the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Chushanrishathaim eight years.” (Judges 3:8)
At times, the individuals that the Lord permits to remain in our lives or positions within our sphere of influence might be part of His providential plan to subject us to trials and tribulations in order to cultivate those virtues most prized by Him. Some may protest these divine tests, pleading with God to remove these individuals from their lives. Instead of yearning for their removal, we should recognize the divine purpose behind their presence. Additionally, we must beware of spiritual pride, which can lead to a fall. Like Peter, we may boast of our devotion, only to falter under pressure. It’s essential to remain humble and attuned to God’s guidance.
Life is a journey of spiritual maturation, and trials are inevitable. However, by trusting in the Lord, staying vigilant, and communing with Him like Abraham, Job, Joseph, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we can navigate life’s challenges and emerge stronger in our faith. Tests and trials act as boot camps for the soldiers of Christ, serving to fortify their resolve and build their spiritual strength. With the strength provided by Christ’s love, which never falters, you can overcome any challenge and reign supreme in life. By living by the faith of the Son of God and steadfastly seeking His guidance in all things, the faithful believer will taste the sweetness of victory and scale new heights of success, emulating the triumphant triumph of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
SEARCHLIGHT: God’s trials are meant to refine you, not defeat you, equipping you for greater purposes.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, grant me the strength and wisdom to rise above trials, transforming me into instruments of Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
BIBLE READING:
Psalms 35-37, Hebrews 5
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
