Lent is a season of being put to the test (see Mt 4:1; Gn 22:1). God, "the Tester of our hearts" (1 Thes 2:4), brings us to obedience school this Lent. He is testing us to see if we trust His promises or if our hearts are far from Him and we've just been giving Him "lip service" (Mk 7:6). Three days ago, the Church proclaimed Jesus' promise that God wants to provide our needs (Mt 7:7-11). Tomorrow Jesus promises us that if we give, God will provide for us lavishly (Lk 6:38).
Do we believe God and His promises? Our lifestyle tells Him whether or not we trust His promises. For example, Abraham trusted God for his family even when he couldn't see a way out of the test (Heb 11:8ff). This Lent, many are also being tested in the area of conceiving another child. Others will pay more attention to their financial situation or how much energy they have and pay little attention to God and His promises to provide for them. While it is wise to make prudent decisions (see Lk 14:28), this test is not about prudence. It is about trusting God and abandoning yourself into His hands. You can trust every one of God's promises (Jos 23:14; 2 Cor 1:20).
"No test has been sent you that does not come to all men. Besides, God keeps His promise. He will not let you be tested beyond your strength. Along with the test He will give you a way out of it so that you may be able to endure it" (1 Cor 10:13). The exam is beginning. Pass the trust test
| PRAYER: | Father, the money in my pocket proclaims, "In God we trust." May my life of trust in You speak louder than my money. |
| PROMISE: | "If God is for us, who can be against us?" –Rm 8:31 |
| PRAISE: | "You need not be amazed! You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, the One Who was crucified. He has been raised up; He is not here. See the place where they laid Him" (Mk 16:6). Praise Jesus! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College