Testing God

Have you ever been tested by someone? Or tested someone to see what they were saying was true? Although some may look at this in a negative light, I have chosen to embrace being challenged in my life. Being tested by something or someone is a chance or opportunity to prove a truth. Would you find it surprising that God also invites us to challenge Him?

Malachi, the last book in the Old Testament, speaks about God's displeasure for His people. God burdens His prophet to tell Israel of their ingratitude and profaneness. In the third chapter (v.10) we read God's challenge to His people, Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,

that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this, says the Lord of hosts if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it. After calling out their unbelief, God gives Israel the opportunity to test Him (and try Me now in this).

As Christians, we should not be surprised at the workings of God. Such as when He convicts us; as a father teaches and disciplines his children. Are we not His children? Do we not refer to Him as Father? And just as a loving father does, do not be surprised when God convicts you. Or, when we are tempted. In Paul's first letter to the church in Corinth (10:13), we read about temptation, No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. One of the keys words in this passage is: able. Sometimes, what we are willing to do may be different than what we are able to do.

Are you surprised when He performs miracles? Throughout the Bible, we read of miracle after miracle performed by God and His Son Jesus. Yet, after reading of these miracles and experiencing those of our own, we are still surprised by God's divine authority and power!

Have you tested God lately? If not, I encourage you to take Him up on the offer...

Pastor Aaron