When our faith gets tested

During these final weeks of the summer before Rosh Hashanah, we read the last section of the Torah, in the book of Devarim. There, as the Jewish people prepare to enter the Holy Land with Joshua, Moses offers his final address. 
The Kabalsitic book of Zohar and Hasidisim teaches that Moses' true role is to nurture his people's faith, instilling in them a deep understanding of and unwavering commitment to G-d and His purpose for them.
We therefore find in his farewell speech that Moses reminds the people that even though they are entering the Promised Land, challenges will still arise. He says, “You shall know in your heart that just as a man chastises his son, so does the L-rd, your G-d, chastise you.”
Moses wants the people to understand that even in difficult times, they must remember that they are G-d’s chosen and treasured people, and He is always with them.
So, what should they do when faced with challenges that shake their faith, such as seeing the wicked prosper or flawed ideologies gaining popularity. How could they reconcile that with their belief? 
Moses offers a simple answer: “G-d is testing you to determine whether you truly love Him with all your heart and all your soul.”
When we witness a lack of the Divine favor we assume is owed to those who follow G-d's will, our faith can be tested. Voices from both within and outside mock what seems like a naïve belief. The Rebbe explains that in these moments, when G-d's presence seems hidden, it is because He wants to bring us into a closer, more intense relationship with Him. To maintain our faith during these tests, we must draw on deeper levels of commitment than usual.
Once we pass the test, its purpose is fulfilled, and our once-hidden, deep connection with G-d becomes our new, everyday consciousness. What better way to prepare for the High Holidays, then by exploring and enhancing our faith in G-d.