In the video titled “Trusting Jesus Through the Testing” by Sandi Teel from Refuge Calvary Chapel, the idea that Jesus tests our faith is discussed. She mentions Andrew and Phillip, who have witnessed Jesus’ miracles. Sandi shares a personal story about a difficult year in her life in 2015, including her husband losing his job and other major life events. Despite the challenges, she talks about how she clung to scriptures during this time of testing and experienced the faithfulness of God. Sandi encourages the audience to build their faith on the rock of Jesus and be a refuge for others when their faith is shaken. She also announces that she will be moving to West Virginia, leaving Refuge Calvary Chapel.
Trusting Jesus Through the Testing
Introduction
Welcome to this comprehensive article on trusting Jesus through the testing. In this article, we will explore the concept of Jesus testing our faith, look at examples of Jesus testing faith in the Bible, and hear stories of individuals who have trusted Jesus through challenging times. Through these stories, we hope to encourage you to strengthen your faith in Jesus and rely on His faithfulness during testing.
Summary of the Video
The video titled “Trusting Jesus Through the Testing” by Sandi Teel from Refuge Calvary Chapel discusses the idea that Jesus tests our faith. Sandi shares insights from the Bible, stories of individuals who have witnessed Jesus’ miracles, and her personal experiences through difficult times. Throughout the video, Sandi encourages the audience to trust in Jesus and build their faith on the rock of His teachings.
The Idea of Jesus Testing Our Faith
Jesus’ role in testing our faith
Jesus plays an important role in testing our faith. Just as a teacher tests their students to ensure they have learned the material, Jesus tests us to see if we have truly grasped the lessons He has taught. Through testing, Jesus helps us put our faith into practice and solidify our understanding of His teachings.
Understanding the purpose behind testing
When Jesus tests our faith, it is not to discourage or harm us, but rather to strengthen and refine us. Testing allows us to grow spiritually, deepen our trust in Jesus, and become stronger disciples. It is through testing that we learn to fully rely on Jesus and experience His faithfulness in our lives.
Examples of Jesus testing faith in the Bible
The Bible provides numerous examples of Jesus testing faith. One of the most well-known stories is that of Andrew and Phillip, who witnessed Jesus’ miracles and had their faith tested. By examining these examples, we can gain a deeper understanding of how Jesus tests our faith and the importance of remaining steadfast in our belief.
Andrew and Phillip’s Witness
Importance of witnessing Jesus’ miracles
Andrew and Phillip were fortunate to witness the miracles performed by Jesus. Their firsthand experiences not only strengthened their faith but also served as a foundation for the testing they would face later. Witnessing Jesus’ miracles reminded them of His power and goodness, giving them the courage to trust Him through difficult times.
How Andrew and Phillip’s experiences relate to testing
The experiences of Andrew and Phillip offer valuable insights into how testing can impact our faith. Just as Andrew and Phillip were tested, we too can face challenges that threaten our belief in Jesus. However, by remembering the miracles we have witnessed and holding onto our faith, we can overcome these tests and grow closer to Jesus.
Sandi’s Personal Story
Difficulties faced in 2015
In 2015, Sandi Teel and her family experienced a series of challenging events. One of the major hardships was her husband losing his job. This was a significant blow to their family, especially considering they were only a few weeks away from their son’s wedding. Sandi shares this story to demonstrate the testing she endured and how her faith was affected during this trying time.
Loss of Sandi’s husband’s job
Sandi’s husband losing his job had a profound impact on her family. The sudden loss of income and the uncertainty of the future tested their faith and trust in God’s provision. Despite the difficulties, Sandi and her husband remained steadfast in their belief in Jesus and leaned on Him for guidance and strength.
Other major life events faced
2015 was filled with other major life events for Sandi and her family. These events added to the testing they were already experiencing. However, through it all, Sandi’s faith in Jesus remained unwavering, and she clung to the promises found in Scripture to find comfort and strength.
The impact of these challenges on Sandi’s faith
Sandi’s faith was greatly impacted by the challenges she faced in 2015. The trials she endured forced her to rely on Jesus in a deeper and more profound way. It was through these difficulties that Sandi experienced firsthand the power and faithfulness of God.
Clinging to Scriptures during Testing
The power and comfort found in Scripture
During times of testing, Scripture can be a source of incredible power and comfort. The Word of God provides guidance, encouragement, and assurance of His promises. Sandi found great solace in the Scriptures and relied on specific verses to strengthen her faith during her testing.
Examples of verses that Sandi relied on
Sandi shares some of the verses she clung to during her testing. These verses provided her with the strength and hope she needed to persevere. Examples include verses about God’s faithfulness, provision, and His promise never to leave nor forsake His children.
How Scripture helped strengthen her faith
By immersing herself in Scripture, Sandi found that her faith was strengthened and her trust in Jesus deepened. The truths found in the Bible reminded her of God’s character and His unwavering love for His children. Through Scripture, Sandi was able to hold onto her faith and experience God’s presence in the midst of her testing.
Experiencing God’s Faithfulness
How Sandi witnessed God’s faithfulness during testing
Despite the challenges, Sandi witnessed God’s faithfulness throughout her testing. She shares specific instances where God provided for her family’s needs, guided their steps, and gave them peace in the midst of uncertainty. Sandi’s experiences serve as a testimony to the faithfulness of God even in the most difficult times.
Specific instances of God’s provision and guidance
Sandi recounts moments where God provided in unexpected ways. From financial provision to opportunities for personal growth, Sandi experienced firsthand God’s hand at work in her life. These instances reinforced her trust in Jesus and deepened her faith.
The importance of trusting in His faithfulness
Sandi emphasizes the importance of trusting in the faithfulness of God during testing. By trusting in Him, we can have peace and assurance that He will work all things together for our good. Sandi’s story serves as a reminder that we can rely on Jesus, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Building Faith on the Rock of Jesus
The significance of a solid foundation
Building faith on the rock of Jesus is essential for enduring testing. Just as a house needs a strong foundation to withstand storms, our faith needs a solid foundation in Jesus to remain steadfast during difficult times. Sandi highlights the importance of building our faith on the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.
How to build a strong faith in Jesus
Sandi shares practical steps for building a strong faith in Jesus. This includes regularly reading and studying the Bible, seeking fellowship with other believers, and spending time in prayer and worship. By engaging in these practices, we can develop a firm foundation in Jesus and be better equipped to face testing.
Importance of trusting in Jesus during testing
Trusting in Jesus is paramount during times of testing. Sandi emphasizes that Jesus is our refuge and strength, and He is with us every step of the way. By putting our trust in Him, we can find solace, peace, and strength to endure testing and grow in our faith.
Conclusion
As we conclude this comprehensive article on trusting Jesus through the testing, we are reminded of the importance of building our faith on the rock of Jesus. Through the stories shared by Sandi Teel and the examples from the Bible, we see the significance of trusting in Jesus during times of testing. By clinging to Scripture, experiencing God’s faithfulness, and building a strong foundation in Jesus, we can navigate the challenges of life with unwavering faith. Let us remember that Jesus is always with us and will guide us through every trial we face.