Our Savior's Church - Lafayette
Discussion Guide

The Testing of Testing

Pastor Joseph Aranza
|
May 18, 2025

Main Idea

The central theme of Pastor Joseph's sermon was that testing is an integral part of our spiritual journey. He explained that the trials we face are not random hardships but intentional moments allowed by God to produce steadfastness and unwavering faith within us. By examining the lives of biblical characters and the teachings in the book of James, he conveyed that testing is a divine tool used to prepare us for greater things. Pastor Joseph urged us to see our obstacles as disguised opportunities, shaping us to be ready for the future God has planned.

Scripture References

James 1:2-3, James 1:12, John 10:10, Mark 3:16, Matthew 3:16, Matthew 4:1, Proverbs 3:5, Isaiah 55

How do you personally differentiate between testing from God and temptation from the enemy?

When life shakes your foundation, what spills out reveals what's within you; let it be hope, love, joy, and peace from God's presence.

Can you share a time when a trial in your life turned out to be preparation for something greater?

Discussion Questions:

Why do you think God allows us to go through periods of testing, and how can we embrace them positively?

How can we cultivate a response of joy and steadfastness in the face of various trials?

In what ways can we support each other as a spiritual family during testing times?

The purpose of prayer is not to leave with an answer, but to leave with His presence, which brings peace regardless of circumstances.

Summary

Pastor Joseph shared a powerful message with us at Our Savior's Church - Lafayette, titled 'The Testing of Testing.' He delved into the book of James, emphasizing how trials and tests of faith are not only inevitable but also serve a purpose in our spiritual growth. He reminded us that while God's plan may not align with our preferences, it's designed to build steadfastness in us. Through the stories of biblical figures like Joseph, Job, Jonah, and the Israelites, Pastor Joseph illustrated that significant use by God often follows a period of testing. He distinguished between testing from God, which builds us, and temptation from the enemy, which aims to break us. He encouraged us to embrace trials as opportunities for growth and preparation for what God has in store for us.

Call to Action

Some next steps to take this week:

Reflect on how you respond to testing and consider how it might be preparing you for God's plans.

Seek out spiritual family and support to partner with during times of testing.

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