Deuteronomy 8:2
“You shall remember all the way which the LORD your God has led you in the wilderness these forty years, that He might humble you, testing you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not. ”
This verse gives us some insight for the reason for trials. Scripture tells us that trials are a necessary part of the christian life. Hebrews 12:6 points out that trials are an evidence that we are His children.
Today’s verse gives a reason for trials: to learn what’s in our hearts. Proverbs 20:5 says, “A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, But a man of understanding draws it out.” This verse speaks of the mysterious things in our hearts. The plans and the motives aren’t obvious on the surface.
The Lord uses trials to bring them out. Proverbs 17:3 says, “The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the LORD tests hearts.” Just like metals must be brought to a molten state for purification, so must we.
Moses was raised as a prince in Egypt. He was sympathetic to the Hebrews and wanted to deliver them. His plans led to murdering an Egyptian. The intent was fine, but his action plan was wrong. He ran away to the wilderness. God worked on him for years to refine him. He came back to Egypt a very different person.
Lord, thank You that You want to refine us. Help us to be patient and trusting. Help us to grow in awareness of our motives. Help us to be rid of the bad ones