There is a song that keeps playing in my head and heart...

and when I get in the van these days...I find myself hitting "repeat"!
Just this morning, all three kiddos have Math tests and their reactions varied.  Teddy "hates tests".  Ashlynn dragged her feet to start the test.  Alisa was happy because that means she will be done with school earlier.

I can't help but think of how I view tests!  I don't have to take tests for school anymore...what a relief!  All the studying, cramming, stress, tears, anxiety...to take the test and then wait for the results...all to prove that I had learned something.  Oh...and then those dreaded "Pop Quizzes" that seemed to bring such delight to the teachers...all "to prepare you for the real test".  True and False.  Multiple choice.  Essays.  Define and discuss.  Fill in the blank.   Some questions subjective.  Other questions objective.  Critical thinking...ouch.   
Now...I probably don't remember most of what I was tested over all those years.  Sad...but when you aren't always using the information...you lose it.  Sometimes a word, fact, or picture brings back some of the information or concept.  Truth be told, some of the material...I never totally got or grasped.  (I apologize, Dr. S., your lecturing in Freshman History of Civilization was so over my head...I drowned.)  We all learn differently, that's for sure!  Some of us have to spend more time than others in learning and reviewing.  Some of us need more help.  Some of us have to repeat the classes and lessons.  A few "get it" the first time!

I'm pretty sure that is the reason for the constant tests that God brings into my life.  He knows that I will forget...or become dull of mind and heart.  There are things that I haven't learned yet.  There may be lessons that I have ignored.  There may be tests that I have failed and need to re-take.  All I know is...I still don't like tests.  I still get "all keyed up" knowing the test is coming, is already happening, or is going to be given again.

I know that God has given me the answers to all my questions...and I have to daily study to be ready for the testing that is sure to come my way!  I know that it won't be on paper with pen and pencil...no...my answers will be recorded on the hearts and minds of those that stand around me.  I may make mistakes that will require the "eraser of God's forgiveness".  I can rest in the fact that He makes no mistakes and He offers His mercy, love, and grace to His child.
The tests aren't always going to be scheduled on the syllabus of my life...most likely...the tests will be in the form of those feared "Pop Quizzes"...when I least expect it!  Will I be ready?  Or not?

Turn Every Test Into A Testimony
There are times when days are dark for children of the light,
Seems like it's all uphill and nothing is going right.
You can choose to stand strong and give God the glory,
Even help someone else when they hear our story.


Turn every test into a testimony.
Help someone who is going through a time so dark and lonely.
Shout to the world, lift our voice in victory.
And turn every test into a testimony.

Let us take every chance to talk about His power, 
And tell how He meets His children in their darkest hour.
He'll see us through every day, and as our faith keeps growing
Use it to help someone else with our hope in knowing.