James 1:2, James 1:12, Philippians 4:6, Hebrews 11:17, Genesis 15:6, Isaiah 43:1-2, Hebrews 11:6

Gideon Opaluwa on the importance of having your character developed as you go through trials.

Gideon Opaluwa

Life has so many events and the ups and downs shape you as a person. This is no different for a child of God. I believe that our tests, trials and challenges build our faith.

James 1:2 says we should count it all joy when we face trials or tests. James 1:12 also says blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.

I believe that going through the process of trials or tests is so important in building your character and your faith. However, I understand that it's not a pleasant experience.

Recently I sat an exam and with all my busy schedule and tight deadlines at work, plus family commitments, I definitely did not want to take the exam, because I was unsure if I would be adequately prepared. Also, I had the fear of failing. I should mention that for the same reason I had postponed it last year.

I did write the exam though, yay! And I am awaiting the results. The point is, I had to confront my fear. I had to be determined to create the time and go through the process of studying, and attending lectures. However, the joy of writing the exam when I finished was remarkable. I felt so elated and relieved. This is a very basic example, but I believe you get the point I am trying to make.

One synonym for fear is anxiety, but our attitude to fear or anxiety should be Philippians 4:6, 'Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God'.

Brothers, sisters, processes are not necessarily pretty, or enjoyable, but God has designed them to make us better people and also to use our stories and experiences to teach others.

The reason we read about Abraham today as the Father of faith is because he went through a process. He was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac (Hebrews 11:17). He made some mistakes on the way by having a child with Hagar, and even lied about Sarah being his sister, however, in the end it was said that he believed God and it was counted as righteousness, (Genesis 15:6). In the end his faith and belief in God through the seasons of his life was what made him.

I don't know what your circumstances are right now. Perhaps you are going through a process. Please understand that you are coming out gold!

Fear not the Bible says, 'But now, God's Message, the God who made you in the first place, Jacob, the One who got you started, Israel: "Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're mine. When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you. When you're in rough waters, you will not go down. When you're between a rock and a hard place, it won't be a dead end because I am God, your personal God, the Holy of Israel, your Savior.' (Isaiah 43:1-2)

I will end on this note, 'faith not fear' is what God expects of us. Hebrews 11:6, 'And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him'.