CRCT, ITBS, EOC, SAT, ACT, AP, IB, GRE, LSAT, Midterm Exams, Board Exams, Entrance Exams, Exit Exams…Chances are, you or someone you know has taken one of more of these tests. The possibility of tests can trigger anxiety in most students and though most people dread taking tests, it is a necessary evil. While they may be scary, tests give students an opportunity to show what they are made of.
Likewise in our walk with God, tests are required. Sometimes, God tests us to see what we are made of and sometimes God desires for us to test Him and see what He is made of.
What are you struggling with today? Perhaps the task ahead of you seems insurmountable. Perhaps it appears as if there is never going to be enough time to accomplish all the things on your list. Perhaps you have encountered one too many obstacles in your finances, your relationship(s), or in pursuit of your dreams.
Genesis 15:6 states that “Abraham believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith. ” As I reviewed this chapter, I saw that God gave Abraham a promise that perhaps would have seemed far-fetched and unrealistic to others. How could Abraham have as many descendants as the stars in sky when he did not even have a son?
Many of our situations seem far-fetched and there seems to be no realistic options available. But what if we make a declaration that we will believe God? What if we made up our mind to put God to a test by believing the promises He has already spoken over our marriages, our relationships, our children, our finances, our health? What if we tested God? Testing God simply means that we hold our end of the bargain (obedience to God) while we allow God to work out the details. It means that we relinquish our hold on the situation and give it over to God.
Genesis 15:6 states that “Abraham believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith. ” As I reviewed this chapter, I saw that God gave Abraham a promise that perhaps would have seemed far-fetched and unrealistic to others. How could Abraham have as many descendants as the stars in sky when he did not even have a son?
Many of our situations seem far-fetched and there seems to be no realistic options available. But what if we make a declaration that we will believe God? What if we made up our mind to put God to a test by believing the promises He has already spoken over our marriages, our relationships, our children, our finances, our health? What if we tested God? Testing God simply means that we hold our end of the bargain (obedience to God) while we allow God to work out the details. It means that we relinquish our hold on the situation and give it over to God.
I challenge you today that no matter what lies ahead of you, decide that you will put God to a test in that situation. Let Him shoulder the anxiety you may feel. Let Him bear all the weight, the concerns, and the baggage that you are toting. Hold fast to God’s promises as you wait and allow Him to show you what He alone can do.
In what areas of your life can you put God to a test?
This song always reminds me to continue to believe God, to trust God and to put my faith in Him.
In what areas of your life can you put God to a test?
This song always reminds me to continue to believe God, to trust God and to put my faith in Him.
Mina Jartu
February 18, 2015Wow! Thanks Jandi. This is right on point for me. We talked about it in bible study to day, and I'm hearing it again. I will definitely continue to test God, and be prepare for His text. (Study to show myself approve…)
Ida-Laurinda Larmouth
February 18, 2015I had an incredibly frustrating day yesterday b/c I was struggling with this very issue. I woke up this morning and purposed to let God be God (as if I have any other choice). It's a very challenging position for my personality b/c I don't even have the illusion of control. This post is just confirmation for me. It encourages me to move forward in faith. I feel a bit extra special that God led you to write this knowing I would need this exact reminder today. Praise Jesus and than you. 🙂
J.Harris
February 19, 2015Mina, thanks so much for reading! This was a great reminder that until I put God to the test, it's all just talk!!!
J.Harris
February 19, 2015Thank you Ida-Laurinda for your comment! For those of us who are control freaks, it is quite the task to trust God and indeed, it comes down to my measure of faith! I have to remind myself that God's got it! He can do it- He's done it before and He can certainly do it again and again and again…..
Luba
March 8, 2015Wow, I never thought of obedience to God as testing God. Thanks, Jandi!
J.Harris
March 23, 2015Luba, Thank God for you!