Aiding Transformation: Understanding Trials, Tests and Temptations

When we hear the word “test”, it can bring us back to our childhood, sitting at a desk, anxiously watching our teacher hand out an exam, worrying that we had not studied enough or will remember enough to pass. We often view tests as negative and hard, and feel as if we are better off without them. But tests are about qualifying us.

A test is designed to prove that someone has the competency and ability to move forward. Schools test that the student has comprehended the knowledge and can apply it. When we graduate, it is because of passing tests. Tests are a safety net for us and the world around us so that we can understand where we are at and what we can expect for ourselves. 

There are tests for us outside of academia as well; physical, emotional and spiritual tests, and there is no escaping these sorts of trials. You may not feel like this is good news but it is! Tests are an encouragement to grow through points of difficulty. 

Trials and temptations present an opportunity to overcome them and move forward on our journey with more confidence and strength. If God is testing you, it’s about qualifying you for what He has in store for you. 

As mentors, coaches or professional supervisors, we walk with people who are going through tests and being tempted on a regular basis. Our role is to aid them, to help and encourage them to persevere towards the crown of life. 

Temptation often is seen as the devil tempting us, but the concept that “He made me do it” is false. It can be dangerous for us to think this way because it takes the burden of responsibility from us. Temptation comes from our own desires. While everyone has desires and God created us to seek happiness, giving into temptation to fulfill those desires whatever the cost can become a process of destruction, enticing us, dragging us away, and giving birth to sinful actions. The more we give in to temptations, the easier it becomes to do so. 

For example, a client might be constantly tempted by sweet foods. Overeating can lead to dangerous health issues and cause pain and anxiety in a person’s loved ones. It may begin with the desire for sweets, but without regulation can become something more. Everyone faces temptations like this, perhaps alcohol, screen time, even obsessive exercise. There are thousands! However, it may be that the desire is there because of something deeper. Often we reach for our desires out of boredom, stress or compassion-fatigue. The body is looking for help, comfort or control. Understanding why a client feels this desire and how to recognise when and why this desire is unhealthy will help the client begin to apply moderation. That is where our role is so important. We can help people to pause and reflect, build moderation and grow from this test. 

Reflection Questions: 

• Where in life am I being tested?
• Where do I see my desires become unhealthy or unsustainable? 
• Is there a root cause in my desires? 
• What does God want for me? Are desires preventing this? 

What’s Next?

As a professional helping others, do you have a professional supervisor? Can we help you find one? https://vervelead.com/contact/