All People Are Tested

He created the heavens and Earth in six days when His Throne was on the water, in order to test which of you has the best actions. (Qur'an, 11:7) As the above verse reveals, one of the reasons for creating Earth was so that God could test humanity. In reality, each person undergoes a life-long trial that will end only with his or her death. After that, he or she will either be rewarded or punished.

The troubles, sorrows, and hardship experienced in this world are a means of testing. Those who are patient and trust in God while enduring hardship will have behaved in accord with God's will. People are also tried with wealth, children, beauty, health, and other gifts of God. Regardless of what gifts they receive, however, they must act in line with God's approval instead of their own selfish desires. As one Qur'anic verse states, a verbal affirmation of faith and belief is not enough, for:

Do people imagine that they will be left to say: "We believe," and will not be tested? (Qur'an, 29:2) Those who are patient are given good tidings in the Qur'an:

We will test you with a certain amount of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth, life, and fruits. But give good news to the steadfast. (Qur'an, 2:155) The Bible reveals that being tested is a positive influence that strengthens one's faith: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James, 1:2-4)

Adapted from: "A Call for Unity" by: "Harun Yahya"