God's Test of Our Lives: Exploring the Purpose and Value
Humans often struggle to understand the true meaning of life, in part due to our tendency to focus only on our own species while ignoring the vast diversity of life on this planet. When questions about the meaning of life arise, they frequently take on a human-centric perspective, such as finding a career that brings happiness. However, this kind of thinking can lead to an incomplete understanding, as it does not account for the lives of other creatures, like trees or viruses, which are also part of our interconnected existence.
God's Test in the Context of Nature
If life is indeed a test for some higher existence, then we must evaluate our success based on the criteria set by all living things. In the natural world, the measure of success is reproduction and abundance; humans certainly excel at these aspects. Yet, excelling at these criteria does not necessarily equate to goodness. Therefore, the life we experience may not be a test defined by moral rights and wrongs, but more of an opportunity for personal growth and understanding.
Personal Experiences and God’s Testing
I am currently seeking to pass God’s test in my own life. There have been times when I have faced 'health problems,' though doctors have assured me that there is no physical issue. However, I feel immense stress and fear of death. From this, I conclude that God tests us with such experiences to bring about personal growth and ultimately, positive outcomes.
While personal achievements and objectives are important, they are only meaningful if they contribute to a greater understanding of our purpose. Simply enjoying the journey without considering the destination is a misguided approach. Just as one would ask why they are on a journey, we should also ask, 'Why am I living?' The value of life is deeply intertwined with understanding its purpose, as defined by Socrates: 'The unexamined life is not worth living.'
The Temporal Nature of Life
From a cosmic perspective, our life on Earth is but a fleeting moment. It could be a temporary test period, much like a wealthy father who tests his children before distributing wealth. These tests are not designed to be easy or comfortable; rather, they are intended to challenge us and reveal our true character.
The Importance of Faith and Deeds
God has created us to believe in Him and in the afterlife, yet direct proof of these concepts is often lacking. Our fate is decided based on our beliefs and actions. God tests us to allow us to witness the results of our actions and to recognize that we are rewarded fairly. This is much like a father recording which of his children behaved obediently before distributing his wealth.
Similarly, a wise teacher prepares regular exams to ensure fairness and prepare students for success. The ability to perceive the miracles around us and deny the existence of God suggests a mistaken belief. Various religious texts, such as the Bible and the Quran, teach about God’s creation and the purpose of our testing during life.
The Power to Choose and Act
Each of us has been given the gift to be happy and blessed. We are free to choose our own paths, and God does not predetermine our plans for us. Instead, He has granted us the responsibility to choose our own blessings or curses. All prophets have taught that blessings come from obedience, repentance, and good deeds, culminating in the verse from Isaiah 30:15: 'Blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.'
The Path to Salvation
The obedient believer should be blessed in this life and saved in the afterlife. This truth sets us free from confusion and provides a clear path for living a righteous life. By understanding and embracing this concept, we can navigate the challenges of life and strive towards a better destiny.