I am stressed enough; why do I need a stress test?

I have heart disease. Over the years my cardiologist, motivated by his desire to prevent a heart attack, has regularly scheduled me for an exercise stress test. Can I make a confession? I don't like the stress test. It usually is done on a work day (when I am very busy), taking several hours of my precious time. I get sweaty and return to work needing a shower. I never complain, however, because my cardiologist has my best interest in mind.

Interestingly, God had my best interest in mind when He transplanted a new heart into me.

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 36:26 NIV) 

Like the testing of my physical heart, my spiritual heart needs testing. Spiritual heart stress testing involves trials and difficulties (James 1:2-3; I Peter 1:7). The challenge for me is accepting spiritual heart testing without complaining or doubting its benefits, recognizing that God has my best interests in mind.

Join me this week in saying with King David,

Test me, O Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind...
(Psalms 26:2 NIV) 
 

Sharing the journey with you,