Biblical Answer

The Question of Testing God

When we face difficulties or challenges, we may wonder if God is testing us. However, the Bible teaches us that God is not in the habit of testing us, but rather, we are the ones who test Him. In Acts 15:10, God says, "Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the disciples which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?" Here, God is reminding us that we are the ones who are testing Him, not the other way around.

The Nature of Testing God

When we test God, we are essentially questioning His sovereignty and goodness. We are saying that we know better than Him what is good for us and that we can handle more than what He has given us. This is a form of arrogance and a lack of trust in God's goodness and wisdom. In Psalm 50:16, Job asks God, "Will you look away from me? Will you leave me alone while I swallow my saliva? If I sinned, what did I do to you, O watcher of humanity? Why have you made me your target? Why have I become a burden to you?" Job is essentially saying, "Why are you testing me, God?" But God is not testing Job; Job is testing God. We must learn to trust God's goodness and sovereignty, rather than questioning Him.

The Importance of Trusting God

Trusting God is essential to our spiritual growth and maturity. When we trust God, we are able to see His goodness and wisdom in all circumstances. We are able to rest in His sovereignty and know that He is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). On the other hand, when we test God, we are essentially saying that we don't trust Him. We are saying that we know better than Him and that we can handle more than what He has given us. This is a form of unbelief and a lack of faith. As believers, we must learn to trust God and His goodness, rather than testing Him. We must learn to rest in His sovereignty and know that He is working all things together for our good. By doing so, we will be able to experience the peace and joy that comes from trusting in God.