Test everyone on the touchstone of sincerity; see how far each has renounced, not merely in words, but in actual deed; then, accept their advice and bring into your daily conduct and behaviour.It is the practice that matters, not punditry. (SSSm Vol.1 p.189)

Tests are evidences of Grace rather than of Anger. The terrible aspect of God is not terrible in essence. God is described in the scriptural texts as, ‘Raso Vai Saha’. He is sweetness Itself. How can sweetness ever become bitter? Godhead is a spotlessly clean mirror; you see in it your own reflection. When you have terror-striking propensities, the reflection you will see will strike terror in you, when you have soft, harmless propensities, the reflection will be tender and soft. Do not lay the blame on Godhead, as you are prone to do. When everything goes right, you say that God has come close to you; when something goes wrong, you say that God has deserted you and gone afar! He does not move far or near. The distance from Him to you is as much as the distance from you to Him. He is everywhere. He is always in your heart. Recognise Him there; realise Him as closest and nearest to you. He is your own Self, neither terrible nor tender, but simply IS. (SSS Vol.9, p. 75)

Never feel depressed when you are weighed down by difficulties. God will never impose on you ordeals that you cannot bear. He tests his devotees in various ways. Test is the taste of God. Never fear any test. Be ready to sacrifice even your life for the sake of God. Only then will God protect you. (SSS Vol.31, p.470)

Sandalwood gives more and more fragrance when it is subjected to more and more grinding, so does sugar cane yield juice as it is chewed more and more. Gold gets refined when it is burnt and melted in fire. So also a true devotee will never falter in his love for God even when he faces troubles and obstacles in his life. God tests His devotees only to lift them up to a higher level in the spiritual ladder. A true devotee leads a sacred life, which is sanctified when he faces the obstacles and problems with full faith in the Divine. The body is only for leading a sacred life. (SSS Vol.26, pp.138-139)

The Lord does not test a man just for fun; He does not pile calamity because He enjoys it. Examinations are held, to measure achievement and award marks and honours. You must ask to be examined, so that your progress may be recorded. (SSE, p.71)