7 Ways God Tests You Before He Will Use You

Summary

In this message, the speaker explores the seven tests God uses to prepare individuals for His calling, drawing on the life of Joseph as an example. These tests include the test of service, hiddenness, discouragement, faithfulness, blessings, jealousy, and faith. Joseph’s journey through betrayal, isolation, and success illustrates how God refines character and strengthens faith. The speaker challenges listeners to reflect on which test they are currently facing and encourages them to remain faithful, serve with excellence, and trust God’s timing as they pursue their divine purpose.

Takeaways

• 😀 God has a process before placing you on a platform, and He will first test your character.
• 😀 The first test God gives is the Test of Service. You must demonstrate faithfulness in small tasks before being elevated to positions of influence.
• 😀 The second test is the Test of Hiddenness. During times when you feel overlooked or buried, God purifies your motives.
• 😀 The third test is the Test of Discouragement. Betrayal by those you trust will challenge your faith and endurance, but it also refines your character.
• 😀 The fourth test is the Test of Faithfulness. You must demonstrate not only long-term action but also consistent excellence with the right attitude.
• 😀 The fifth test is the Test of Blessings. Even in times of success and favor, you must remain faithful and maintain your integrity.
• 😀 The sixth test is the Test of Jealousy. Can you celebrate the success of others, even when they seem to receive what you desire?
• 😀 The seventh test is the Test of Faith. Taking a step of faith, even when it requires stepping out of comfort and familiar surroundings, is crucial for breakthrough.
• 😀 God’s perfect timing often means waiting for the right moment to reveal His plan. You must be patient and faithful during times of waiting.
• 😀 Your character is shaped in the process of these tests. God uses these challenges to prepare you for your destiny and calling.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the message in the video?

The main theme of the message is about the seven ways God will test a person before He can use them, illustrated through the story of Joseph in the Bible.

What is the first test that Joseph faced, and how does it relate to God's process?

The first test Joseph faced was the 'test of service.' Despite knowing his divine destiny, Joseph remained humble and served faithfully, showing that before God can elevate you, you must first learn to serve.

How does the 'test of hiddenness' manifest in Joseph's life?

The 'test of hiddenness' is represented when Joseph was thrown into a cistern by his brothers, where he was hidden from the world. In this hidden season, God purifies a person's motives and tests their heart.

What is the significance of betrayal in the story of Joseph, and what does it represent in God's tests?

Betrayal, particularly from those closest to you, is a powerful test. In Joseph's case, his brothers sold him into slavery, which represents the 'test of discouragement.' This test reveals your ability to stay faithful even when hurt by those you trust.

How did Joseph demonstrate faithfulness in Potiphar's house?

Joseph showed faithfulness by serving Potiphar with excellence, even though he was a slave. Despite his difficult circumstances, he remained faithful to God, which led to him receiving favor and promotion.

What is the difference between activity and faithfulness, according to the speaker?

Faithfulness isn't just about doing things over time; it's about doing them with the right attitude and spirit. The test of faithfulness is not just about consistency, but about maintaining excellence and integrity in every task.

What lesson is conveyed through Joseph’s handling of temptation in Potiphar’s house?

Joseph's refusal to succumb to Potiphar's wife’s temptation teaches the lesson of remaining faithful even in seasons of blessing. The test of blessings asks whether you will remain focused on God even when everything seems to be going well.

How does the 'test of jealousy' manifest in Joseph's life, and what does it teach us?

The 'test of jealousy' comes when others seem to receive blessings or answers to prayers before you do. Joseph’s jealousy test was triggered when the cupbearer was restored to his position while Joseph remained in prison. The test teaches you to celebrate others' blessings without envy.

What does Joseph’s time in prison represent in the process of being used by God?

Joseph's time in prison, despite being a difficult place, was part of his divine preparation. The prison represents the 'test of faith,' where you must step out in faith, trusting God's timing, even when things seem to be moving slowly.

What final lesson does the speaker encourage the viewers to take from Joseph's story?

The final lesson is to remain faithful to God's calling, pass the tests He places before you, and trust His timing. The seven tests—service, hiddenness, discouragement, faithfulness, blessings, jealousy, and faith—are all part of the process that prepares you for greater influence and purpose in God's plan.