“Now these are the nations which the LORD left, to test Israel by them (that is, all who had not experienced any of the wars of Canaan; in order that the generations of the sons of Israel might be taught war, those who had not experienced it formerly)” (Judg. 3:1-2)
The only way you become an experienced soldier is through experience. Hard things make tough people. God doesn’t coddle His children. He loves us, but He expects us to get stronger so He lets us experience things that build strength and character.
And the most faithful of God’s people have learned to view it as a badge of honor that they can be trusted to do hard things. The apostles rejoiced that they “were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name” (Acts 5:41), and Paul told the Philippians that it had been “granted” to them that they should suffer for Christ… like it was some sort of privilege.
Because it is a privilege. God won’t allow us to be tempted beyond our ability (1 Cor. 10:13), therefore, when thrown into tough times we have shown ourselves capable.
If you have always had it easy, start training. The real fighters are sent into the ring.
Matt. 4:4 #Biblebites