Although the word "trial" in its original sense does not indicate such a signification, in one of its meanings it has become synonymous with "suffering." In the epistle of James we find "tried" coordinated with "endureth temptation;" and in the same chapter we read, "God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man." Since God does not tempt anyone, He does not send trials.
Trials may be regarded as opportunities of demonstrating God's presence and power; and this view of them is highly helpful. Every right interpretation of a trial—seeing it not merely as a condition of suffering, but as a test which is to be passed successfully—helps us to meet difficulties with confidence and courage.
A student of Christian Science once experienced a trial followed by anxiety and fear. The thought then came to him that in a certain language the word "trial" also signifies examination by a test at school and university. If a pupil knows his lesson and the rules to be applied, what reason has he to fear? So in his trial the student saw that he had but to turn wholly to infinite Mind, God, the only reality, the only power, and listen only to God's voice, which silences the utterings of error. God's voice, the voice of Love, has absolute authority and power; and it demands obedience to His perfect divine law, which in turn controls all in perfect harmony, holiness, health, perfection.
