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Passing the Test of Life: Lessons from Oikeo Call #22

December 1, 2024 | by | |
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“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,
who have been called according to his purpose.”

– Romans 8:28 (NIV)

 

This month’s Oikeo Prayer Call (#22) was a heartfelt and transformative session that centered on “Tests”—the trials of life that challenge our faith, patience, and ability to trust God’s plan. Using George Davis’ book, “Passing the Test of Life”, the speaker delved into one of the most universal and difficult trials: The Disappointment Test.

We’ve all faced disappointment, and it can often leave us feeling lost, frustrated, or even questioning our faith. George Davis identifies four primary sources of disappointment:

  1. People we trusted
  2. Circumstances that didn’t go as planned
  3. Letting ourselves down
  4. Feeling as though God has let us down

The speaker encouraged us to pause and consider how we respond when faced with disappointment. Are we overwhelmed and consumed by it? Or do we choose to lean into our faith? A key takeaway from the discussion was this: Never make life-altering decisions while in the midst of disappointment. In moments of intense emotion, we’re prone to making irrational choices that can lead to further setbacks. Instead, allow yourself time to heal, process the situation with God, and trust Him to guide you through it.

 

Encourage Yourself in the Lord

 

Disappointment is not the end of the story. The speaker urged participants to actively encourage themselves in the Lord. Speak words of hope, faith, and strength over your life, even when circumstances feel grim. Declare:

  • “I know this situation will turn around.”
  • “Despite my disappointment, God is still God, and I will trust Him.”

When we lean into this faith-filled perspective, it keeps the enemy from gaining a foothold in our thoughts. The enemy will try to convince you that you’re alone or that there’s no hope, but that is a lie. God’s promises remain true, even in the darkest moments. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and remind you of God’s love and faithfulness.

Proverbs 13:12 (NIV) speaks directly to this:

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.”
When disappointment sets in, it can feel like hope is deferred, leaving us with a heavy heart. But the promise of God is that He will fulfill the longings He has placed in us, restoring us with new life and joy. Trust that He is working even when the wait feels unbearable.

Scriptures for Encouragement

 

  1. Hebrews 4:15-16 (NIV):
    “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

This verse reminds us that Jesus understands our pain and disappointment. He invites us to approach Him with boldness, to seek His mercy and grace in our moments of weakness.

  1. Psalm 40:1-3 (NIV):
    “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.”

This psalm is a reminder that God hears us in our darkest moments. He lifts us out of the pit of disappointment and places us on solid ground. He restores us, giving us a new song of hope and praise.

The Takeaway

 

Disappointment is a test of our faith and resilience. Whether it comes from others, circumstances, ourselves, or even our perception of God, we are called to respond with trust and hope. Instead of making hasty decisions or giving in to despair, we are encouraged to wait on the Lord, speak life over our situation, and surround ourselves with godly support. As Proverbs 13:12 reminds us, hope may be deferred, but God will ultimately fulfill the desires of our hearts, giving us a tree of life.

Call to Action

 

Have you faced disappointment recently? How did you navigate it? Share your reflections or lessons learned in the comments below. Let’s continue to encourage one another in faith as we strive to pass life’s tests. And don’t forget to join us for Oikeo’s next prayer call for more insight, prayer, and fellowship. Together, we can lean on God’s promises and strengthen each other in love and hope.

Hear the full call below.

 

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