How can we apply the principle of "God has come to test you"? Opening Passage “Do not be afraid,” Moses replied, “for God has come to test you, so that the fear of Him may be before you to keep you from sinning.” — Exodus 20:20 What “Test” Means in Scripture • Not a trap but a proving ground—revealing what is genuine (Genesis 22:1; 1 Peter 1:7). • A refining process that purifies motives and deepens reverence (Psalm 66:10; Malachi 3:3). • A preventative measure—“to keep you from sinning,” safeguarding holiness. Why God Tests Us • To expose the heart: “The LORD your God led you these forty years…to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart” (Deuteronomy 8:2). • To strengthen endurance: “The testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:3). • To magnify His glory through obedient lives (John 15:8). • To prepare us for greater responsibility (Luke 16:10). Common Areas of Testing Today • Finances—choosing integrity over compromise. • Relationships—responding with forgiveness rather than retaliation. • Time and priorities—placing worship and service above personal comfort. • Suffering and health—trusting God’s character when circumstances turn dark. • Success—remaining humble when blessings increase. Practical Ways to Respond to Testing • Remember the purpose: God aims to refine, not ruin. • Replace fear with reverent awe—Exodus 20:20 pairs “Do not be afraid” with “fear of Him” (a healthy, obedient respect). • Saturate the mind with Scripture during trials (Psalm 119:92). • Choose immediate obedience even when feelings lag. • Seek godly counsel; testing is not faced in isolation (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Offer thanks in the midst of trials, acknowledging God’s sovereignty (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Look for the lesson and the likeness of Christ being formed (Romans 8:29). Encouragement from Scripture • “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life” (James 1:12). • “Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him” (Job 13:15). • “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God” (Romans 8:28). • “After you have suffered a little while…He will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Peter 5:10). Summary Takeaways • God-ordained tests reveal, refine, and ready us for deeper fellowship and faithful service. • Viewing trials through Exodus 20:20 shifts the mindset from fear to purposeful reverence. • Steadfast obedience and trust invite God’s sanctifying work and keep sin at bay. |
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