When Faith Faces the Test
Paul closes his letter to the Corinthians with a challenge that lands close to home: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” (2 Cor 13:5)
We tend to examine everything else — our finances, our health, our cars — but how often do we examine our faith? Tests aren’t necessarily enjoyable, but they do reveal what’s real. The Corinthians had spent months questioning Paul’s integrity; now Paul turns the tables: “You’ve tested me. Now test yourselves.”
Faith isn’t just believing ideas about Jesus; it’s belonging to Him and obeying Him. It’s one thing to know the theory — another to take the test drive. Real faith shows itself not just on Sundays but in the traffic of temptation and the detours of disappointment.
This kind of examination isn’t meant to shame, but to strengthen. It’s not about achieving perfection but confirming spiritual direction. Are you becoming more like Christ? Is there evidence of His life shaping yours?
Take the test now, while grace is still open. The goal is not condemnation, but confirmation — that Jesus Christ truly lives in you.