THE WATER TEST [Romans 5:3-4]

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us ---they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation.

Jewelers use the water test as one of the surest ways to identify a true diamond. An imitation stone is never as brilliant as a genuine diamond when placed in water. The water test makes picking the real diamond relatively easy. By way of analogy, the faith of many people under the water of sorrow or affliction is nothing but an imitation. However when a true child of God is immersed in a trial, he will shine as brilliantly as ever, not because of his own strength and character, but because the Holy Spirit working in and through that believer, enables him to withstand the test, and at the same time develop a more Christ like character. When tested child of God, rejoice, for God has predestine that you be molded, shaped, and conformed into the likeness of His dear Son. We can thank God for our trials because we know that He works every thing out for our good and His glory. When the Lord begins a good work, the Scriptures say, “He will complete it.” Our sorrows and afflictions are but a part of that process. You think about that.