Test all your thoughts, words and actions on this touchstone: 'Will this be approved by God?'

Test is a taste of God. Unless you are tested, your determination will not become strong. Students often write three or four tests in a year. Why? Exams are not to trouble them, but to validate and strengthen their understanding of the subject. When they pass in flying colours, they are either promoted to higher classes or gain admission to very good Universities. God also does the same. Hence, welcome tests, not as a punishment, but as a protection. However hard they may be, you must clear it. Then you will definitely attain a higher state. God already knows who you are, but He may test you in order to set an ideal for others. What you see is one and what God sees is another. God tests you so all your sins and shortcomings are washed away. Just as gold is tested and attested for its purity, God’s tests are always for strengthening your courage, patience, determination and devotion.

Bagavan Sri Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba