Women in the Word Wednesday

Test Anxiety


I am following the Good Morning Girls study of James and thought I'd share...

Here is my SOAP (Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer) for James 1:2-4

S

 ²My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;  ³Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.  ⁴But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

O
I am supposed to view trials and temptations as joyful.  Going through these times will help me to build endurance, steadfastness and patience.  Knowing this I need to allow these qualities to fully develop so that I can reach my full potential.

A

As a new Christian I often admired folks who went through trials with smiles on their faces, a pleasant spirit and no complaints.  I'd think, "Wow, God must really think highly of them to give them such a test.  God must know that person can handle a lot."  Then I'd think, well what must God think of me?  Not very much I guess because I've had it pretty easy.  Now I am married, with kids - homeschooling, trying to raise Godly children and keep a Christ centered marriage.  I am going through many life trials and certainly have been tempted to give up because it's "just too hard" and have forgotten what I used to want years ago.  My chance to prove my faith.  I have forgotten that hardship can actually be a good thing.  I've been focused on how I must not be doing things right and why is it I can't hear God answering my prayers or telling me how to do it better. 

I realize that instead of all the head chatter, I instead need to focus on embracing the hard stuff.  I need to focus on the fact that these trials will help me to fully develop into what God intends me to be.  I can be encouraged knowing it is all part of the plan for me!

P
Thank you God, for providing me with the perfect educational plan.  Thank you for each trial, temptation, test, bump, bruise, discomfort and everything else that is not easy in my life.  Thank you for the opportunity to learn, grow and develop.  Please help me to reduce my test anxiety and face each challenge with joy knowing that the end product will be just as You intended.  Thank you for having faith in me.  Help me to strengthen my faith in You so that I can pass my tests with flying colors!