God's Tests for Us
It is always interesting to consider the reasons for the tests God gives us. Some people automatically assume that the trial or test is a result of their sin. They think it is a punishment from God. However, that is not always the case. Think about Job. He endured one of the most severe tests God ever put on a human, but he had done nothing wrong to cause it or for which he was being punished. His test was purely to show his faith in God, and the devil was the main observer of that faith.
When we have tests to show our faith in God like He gave to Abraham when He asked him to sacrifice Isaac, his only son, on an altar, doesn't God know what we will do before He gives the test? Then, why do we need the test? Yes, it is for us to see our own faith when we live it out in trying circumstances. However, it is for the benefit of others, too. God is able to show Himself faithful in the process, as well. Therefore, the tests are necessary for various reasons, besides showing God our faith.
Of course, God does send us tests or trials when we sin, and we need to be stopped in our tracks or punished. He uses angels, other people, or special situations to get our attention and show us our sin. Then, it is up to us to repent and confess our sin. After that, He will end the test. Therefore, in every instance the tests are for our good and our growth, so we should have joy when they come as James tells us in his letter.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Genesis 24-27.
When we have tests to show our faith in God like He gave to Abraham when He asked him to sacrifice Isaac, his only son, on an altar, doesn't God know what we will do before He gives the test? Then, why do we need the test? Yes, it is for us to see our own faith when we live it out in trying circumstances. However, it is for the benefit of others, too. God is able to show Himself faithful in the process, as well. Therefore, the tests are necessary for various reasons, besides showing God our faith.
Of course, God does send us tests or trials when we sin, and we need to be stopped in our tracks or punished. He uses angels, other people, or special situations to get our attention and show us our sin. Then, it is up to us to repent and confess our sin. After that, He will end the test. Therefore, in every instance the tests are for our good and our growth, so we should have joy when they come as James tells us in his letter.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Genesis 24-27.