Steel is formulated from iron and carbon in a process with extreme heat to produce properties of hardness and strength. When it is tempered it will bend without breaking.  It is tested to ensure that the process has achieved its purpose.  We are God’s handiwork according to His design and Sovereign will.  The processes used by God vary according to his purpose and our place in the Kingdom journey.

“By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice.  He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.”  Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death.  By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future.” (Hebrews 11: 17-20).  Abraham had faith that whatever God led Him to do would work out for good.  In the end God provided a ram instead of Issac, Abraham passed the test, he would not withhold even his own Son.

Yeshua was tested frequently by the pharisees regarding his statements, miracles, and deeds.  However, the Bible says, “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” (Deut. 6: 16; Matt. 4: 7; 1 Cor. 10: 9).  Have you ever tested God?  The best illustration of this is the Israelites in the wilderness, who frequently asked for things they wanted, rather than trusting that God would supply all their needs.  They consistently tested God regarding His provision, purposes, and promises. Questioning whether we have authentically and accurately heard God is not a test of God.  We should question our own motives, desires, and understanding.  Waiting on the Lord is not a test of God; we should not jump out ahead of God’s leading.  Testing God is founded in a demand for proof or some action we specify as confirmation of God’s reliability. When manufacturers test their products they seek to identify flaws or defects that may impair the item.  God is completely perfect, good, and trustworthy, so we need not question his love, mercy or faithfulness.

We may not dare question or test God directly, but when we encounter circumstances that are uncomfortable or difficult we may be deceived and conclude that God has forgotten us or that it is up to us to make our own arrangements.  This can be testing God.  The Bible is clear that we are God’s children and that He cares for us in great detail.  “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies?  Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.  Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Luke 12: 6-7).  Give and trust all your circumstances, difficulty, restlessness, and dissatisfaction to God.  He is fully able to bring us through and break off the weight of the world that burdens us so.  Lord Yeshua, forgive us the times we have tested you.