Yesterday I took a Hebrew test so that I could pass out, and not take the class this semester. I missed it by 4 questions. So after studying and memorizing, I fell short. Like most people I dislike tests, and the only thing I dislike more than tests are failing them. Tests need not be a negative experience. It seems to me that the deciding factor between a positive and negative test is the proctor. 
Psalm 11:5 (ESV)
5 The LORD tests the righteous.
God shows his favour toward his people by testing them. So we are absent potential blessing when we are not tested. I now face a semester of Hebrew (yikes!) For you it might be a depleting bank account and increasing bills, deep wounds and few friends, or shattered dreams and unfulfilled promises. God asks will you hold on? Will you concede to me? Will you let me test you? A rabbi once said “this world is a long corridor before the world to come. We must prepare in the corridor so we may enter into THE hall.”
The apostle James resonates fully with this idea. James 1:12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
andreas | beccai 