The Toothpaste Test
I was visiting with a brother recently about how we struggle for the hearts of students. We were talking about being able to see the fruit in the lives of Christians. Specifically, what we are seeing in the lives of our students and children. At this point Brian told me what we really were talking about was the “Toothpaste Test”. My face gave away my question, so he explained. He shared how it is easy to display: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control when there is no pressure or when things are going well. The real test is when we’re being squeezed by circumstances of our fallen world.

What fruit is displayed when things are tough on us? Is our God sufficient in our trials? If so, does it show in how we respond? I began to think of that picture and for the rest of the day I dwelt on how shocked I would be if I squeezed my toothpaste tube and mustard came out. I think I would have several things running through my head. I would immediately think someone is playing a joke on me, then I might turn to frustration, and maybe a little bit of anger.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-25)

When the pressure is on what does the world see coming out of us?


In Christ,

Ernie Molina
High School Principal