The Lord tests the heart

“Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the LORD tests the heart.” Proverbs 17:3 NLT

On January 24, Runner's World published their annual "Best Running Shoes" report for the year. For 2022, they listed the 33 top models they deemed best for the road, trail, and race day. But before doing so, Runner's World gave a look into how the shoes were tested to deem them of being worthy of inclusion in the coveted list of "Best Running Shoes." Runner’s World has the most comprehensive running shoe testing process in the industry. We work with more than 250 local runners of all abilities, ages, and sizes for real-world wear-testing on paved roads, dirt paths, and rocky singletrack. After a month of running more than 100 miles in their respective running shoes, our testers report back their findings on features like fit, comfort, performance, and ride. While they’re putting miles on the shoes, the same models undergo a battery of mechanical tests in our RW Shoe Lab, where we objectively measure each shoe’s cushioning, flexibility, sole thickness, and weight. Our test editors combine their own experience in the shoes with data from the lab and feedback from our wear testers to create reliable, useful reviews of every pair we run in.

And you know, when it comes to being tested to prove reliability, the Bible tells us that the Lord tests our hearts. And He does this by allowing us to experience various trials and temptations to determine whether our faith is real. You see, the way you and I handle adversity reveals the truth about what’s in our hearts. I mean it’s easy to love, follow and trust God when times are good right? But how about when times are bad or even downright ugly? When we get injured or receive a dire diagnosis? Or when the washer goes out and we have no means of replacing it? Or when a child goes down the wrong path, a parent dies, or a spouse walks out the door? These are just some of the things that will test our hearts. Each day is seemingly filled with a million other things that might cause us to abandon the faith. 

So don’t fret when you’re facing misfortune, suffering, afflictions, or difficulties my friend. The same God that is with you in the good times is the very same God that will be with you in the bad times. Keep the faith and trust Him to work out every situation for your good. Doing so will be the test that proves your heart is pure and your faith is real.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that each and every one of the trials and tests we will face in life serve a purpose. Cause us to remember this Lord so that we would not be tempted to give up or bow out when times get tough but to press on to the finish line knowing that each step we take in the face of adversity makes our faith stronger and proves our devotion to You is real. Help us to keep the faith at all times Lord so that others might be inspired to do the same. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!