Chapter 2        The Time Test

            Definition:  In the Time Test, by all outward appearances, God does not seem to

                        be fulfilling the word He gave a leader in the past.  The Time Test tries a leader’s

                        patience, forcing him to trust God to fulfill his call and ministry in His own time

                        and way.

                        PURPOSE:  Develop faith in God and patience with people.

                        BIBLICAL EXAMPLE:  Abraham (Genesis 12-25)

                        PRINCIPLE: Leaders need to develop patience and keep their eye on the goal. 

Chapter 3         The Word Test

            Definition:  In the Word Test, the leader experiences circumstances that seem to

                        nullify the written or living Word of God.  “How can the known will of God

                        possibly come to pass in my life?” is the leader’s cry during this time.  Many feel

                        that because they have been filled and called by God’s Spirit, they should never

                        experience darkness or confusion as long as they do not fall into sin.

                        But the Word Test is no accident.  In fact, God purposely allows contrary

situations in a leader’s life and ministry.  No leader is exempt from these times of

trial and misunderstanding.  During the Word Test, God has not forgotten or

contradicted His promise.  But He desires to accomplish certain purposes that are

as yet totally unknown to the leader.  If the leader endures with patience, trust,

and obedience, he will eventually find himself rejoicing in the Lord’s wisdom

and skill in the planning and use of these seemingly antagonistic experiences.

PURPOSE:  Develop a greater sense of dependence upon the Lord.  Learn to not just trust in one’s own abilities to accomplish a task.

EXAMPLE: Joseph (Genesis 37 -45)

PRINCIPLE: Leaders need to obey the Lord, regardless of what anyone else is doing.

Chapter 4         The Character Test

            Definition:  In the Character Test, the leader is surrounded by ungodliness that

                        attempts to pull him in its direction.  The leader may be tempted to sin in the lust

of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, or the pride of life. (I John 2:16)  In order to develop leaders with strong, godly character qualities—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, self-control, faithfulness—God puts leaders in fiery places so they may learn to stand strong in Him.

PURPOSE: To identify areas of potential weakness so one can stand strong against them.

EXAMPLE: Samuel (I and II Samuel)

PRINCIPLE:  Leaders do not need to be corrupted by their environments.