If life was always easy-peasy, we’d probably never grow much, right? Those tough times, those moments when we’re clinging to faith by the skin of our teeth, that’s when we’re drawn closer to God, learning to lean on Him and not just on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6).
This training hones our character, deepens our faith, and gets us ready for whatever God has planned for us next.
Plus, it’s in these training sessions that we learn to spot God’s hand in our lives, guiding us, shaping us, and sometimes, redirecting us in ways we’d never expect. And let’s be real, seeing how God works in our lives, guiding us through the good, the bad, and the everything in between, is pretty awesome.
It’s about becoming the best version of ourselves, not just for our own sake, but so we can serve others, show love, and spread the kind of hope and faith that can only come from knowing there’s a bigger picture and we’re a part of it.
Signs God is Training You
1. Unusual Challenges Keep Coming Your Way
Ever felt like life is throwing curveballs at you, one after the other? That’s not just bad luck. It might be God training you, like how David faced Goliath before becoming king. Remember, David didn’t just wake up one day and decide to take on a giant. God prepared him through his life as a shepherd, facing lions and bears (1 Samuel 17:34-37).
So, when you’re wondering why these challenges keep piling up, consider it your training ground. God is equipping you for something greater, just like He did with David.
2. You’re Being Pushed Out of Your Comfort Zone
When you start feeling uncomfortable with your current situation, whether it’s your job, relationships, or spiritual life, it’s a clear sign. God is nudging you out of your comfort zone.
It’s His way of saying, “There’s more for you out there!” Just as Peter was called to walk on water, stepping out in faith (Matthew 14:29), you’re being called to trust God and take that leap. It’s scary but remember, Peter didn’t start sinking until he took his eyes off Jesus. Keep your focus, and trust the process.
3. Intense Spiritual Growth
Ever notice how sometimes your spiritual life just explodes? You’re reading more, praying more, and just feeling closer to God. This is a signal that God is training you, molding you. Think of it as spiritual boot camp.
James 1:2-4 talks about considering it pure joy when facing trials because it tests your faith, producing perseverance. This growth isn’t just for you; it’s preparing you to help others in their faith journey, too.
4. A Deepening Desire for God’s Word
Suddenly, the Bible isn’t just another book on your shelf. You’re drawn to it, craving its wisdom and guidance daily. This hunger is God stirring in your heart, preparing you for what’s ahead.
Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” As you dive deeper into Scripture, you’re not just reading; you’re being equipped with the light you need for the journey God has mapped out for you.
5. Opportunities to Serve Others
Out of nowhere, you’re presented with opportunities to help and serve others. These aren’t coincidences; they’re divine appointments. By serving, you’re following Jesus’ example (Matthew 20:28), who came not to be served but to serve.
This sign is God’s way of training your heart to be more like His, showing love and compassion to those around you. It’s in these moments of service that we often find our true calling.
6. Increased Dependence on Prayer
If you find yourself praying more than usual, about everything from big decisions to daily needs, it’s a sign. God is drawing you closer, teaching you to rely on Him fully.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages us to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances. Through increased prayer, you’re not just talking to God; you’re listening, allowing Him to guide your steps and decisions.
7. Feeling Out of Place in the World
Ever feel like you just don’t fit in? Like your values and dreams aren’t aligned with the world’s? Congratulations, you’re experiencing what it means to be not of this world (John 15:19).
It’s uncomfortable, yes, but it’s also a sign that God is setting you apart, training you to live for something greater than what the world offers. This feeling is a call to embrace your identity in Christ and to walk the path He has laid out for you.
8. Losses That Lead to Greater Trust in God
Sometimes, God removes things from our lives, and it hurts. But remember, every loss is a lesson in trust. Just as Job lost everything only to have his faith and everything else restored by God (Job 42:10-17), your losses are not in vain.
They teach you to place your trust not in the things of this world but in the Creator of everything. Through these trials, your faith is strengthened, and your relationship with God deepens.
9. Your Plans Keep Failing
It’s frustrating when, no matter how hard you try, your plans just don’t work out. But here’s a thought: Maybe they’re not supposed to. Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.”
When your plans keep failing, it’s a clear sign God is redirecting you. He’s training you to let go of your plans and trust in His perfect timing and will for your life.
10. A Strong Sense of Being Led
Have you ever felt an inexplicable pull in a certain direction, whether in your career, spiritual journey, or relationships? That’s not random; it’s God’s leading.
The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth (John 16:13), often prompting us in ways that don’t make sense at the moment but lead to God’s perfect plan for our lives. This strong sense of being led is a sign to trust and follow, even when the path isn’t clear.
11. Unexplained Peace in Chaos
In the midst of turmoil, finding a deep, unexplained peace is a powerful indicator that God is with you, training you to find your strength in Him. Philippians 4:7 talks about the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
This peace is a sign that you’re learning to trust God’s sovereignty, even when the world around you is falling apart.
12. Recognizing Your Weaknesses
When you start seeing your flaws and weaknesses not as failures but as opportunities for God to work through you, you’re being trained. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 shows us that in our weaknesses, God’s strength is made perfect.
This realization is a sign that you’re learning humility and dependence on God, allowing Him to use your weaknesses as a platform for His power.
13. A Call to Repentance and Change
Feeling a strong conviction to turn away from sin and make significant changes in your life is a clear sign of God’s training. It’s like He’s refining you, removing the impurities to reveal the gold within.
Acts 3:19 encourages repentance so that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. This call to change is not about condemnation but about transformation, preparing you to live a life that reflects God’s glory.
14. Experiencing Joy in Serving God
Lastly, if you find joy in serving God, even in small, everyday tasks, you’re on the right track. This joy doesn’t come from worldly success or recognition but from knowing you’re fulfilling God’s purpose for your life.
1 Peter 4:10-11 reminds us to use whatever gift we have received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. This joy is a sign that you’re aligning with God’s will, finding satisfaction not in the applause of men, but in the peace and contentment that comes from being in harmony with divine expectations.
When we serve with this mindset, every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, and every gesture of love becomes an offering to God.
Why does God want me out of my comfort zone?
Feeling comfy is nice, but growth? That happens outside the comfort zone. When God nudges you into situations that feel a bit (or a lot) uncomfortable, He’s stretching your faith muscles. Remember when Peter was called to walk on water? (Matthew 14:29). That was definitely not in his comfort zone! But it was all about trusting Jesus.
If you’re feeling pushed into new, scary territory, it’s likely God inviting you to trust Him more and see what amazing things you can do with Him by your side. Embrace it, and you’ll see how much you can grow.
Why is increased prayer a sign of God’s training?
Think of prayer like spiritual breath. The more you pray, the more you’re alive in your faith. If you’re suddenly finding yourself chatting with God about the big stuff, the small stuff, and everything in between, it’s a sign He’s drawing you closer.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages us to pray continually, and there’s a good reason for it. Through prayer, you’re not only talking to God but also listening, letting Him guide your steps. It’s like getting personal coaching from the Creator Himself. So, keep that line open, and let the prayers flow. It’s a key part of your spiritual training.
What does it mean to feel out of place in the world?
Ever feel like a square peg in a round-hole world? That’s not by accident. Jesus said His followers are not of this world, just as He isn’t (John 15:19). If you’re feeling out of sync with the world’s values and dreams, it’s a sign you’re being called to live for something higher, something eternal.
This feeling is God nudging you to embrace your true identity in Him, to live out His values and spread His love. It’s a call to stand out, not fit in, and while it’s not always comfy, it’s gratifying. So, if you’re feeling this way, take heart. You’re on the right track.
How can unexplained peace in chaos be a sign of God’s training?
Ever been in a situation that by all accounts should have you freaking out, but instead, you’re weirdly calm? That’s not just a fluke. Philippians 4:7 talks about the peace of God, which transcends all understanding.
This peace is a big sign that God is with you, training you to trust Him no matter what storms are raging around you. It’s like being in the eye of a hurricane and finding a quiet spot right in the center.
This peace doesn’t mean you’re ignoring reality; it means you’re trusting God’s control over every situation. It’s a powerful part of your spiritual training, teaching you to find God’s peace even when chaos is all around.
One Response
Thank you. God bless you.