I am a Jesus pusher!!! I am deeply aware that embracing Jesus will naturally result in testing. Jesus was tested; I am certainly not exempt. Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1). However, one must be very clear about the motive and purpose of this testing from God. There are several Greek words related to the area of testing, tempting, or proving. There is the Greek word “nouthesia.” This word focuses on instruction by means of words. “Paideia” also focuses on instruction, but is mainly by deed. The author of the Book of Hebrews uses this Greek word in his discussion of the discipline of God. He asks, “If you endure chastening (paideia), God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?” (Hebrews 12:7) He emphasizes the lack of this discipline is a sign we are illegitimate. The purpose of this testing is not negative or evil; it is positive. God chastens (paideia) us for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness (Hebrews 12:10). Holiness is His nature. He wants us to be intimate with Him; He desires us to participate in the very core of His being. If this is true, I will welcome the discipline of Jesus in my life!
In light of this truth, I am willing to view every circumstance I face as an opportunity to receive the correction and instruction of Jesus. In this instruction, He will reveal Himself to me. I will be enabled to know Him better; we shall be intimate. I will face the difficult circumstances without complaints; I will embrace them as stepping stones to greater knowledge of His person. In the embrace of Jesus all things work together for good (Romans 8:28). My confidence is in Jesus! I am a Jesus pusher!!!