God tests people to reveal what is in their hearts, to strengthen their faith, and to prove their obedience. His tests are not for His own knowledge (since He knows all things) but for the benefit of the individual and those who witness their lives. Through testing, God purifies motives, refines character, and brings forth enduring faith.
Deuteronomy explains the purpose of testing:
“And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.”
(Deuteronomy 8:2)
Testing reveals whether a person will trust God even when circumstances are hard. It exposes pride, impatience, or unbelief, and leads to spiritual maturity.
God tested Abraham by commanding him to offer Isaac:
“Now it came to pass… that God tested Abraham, and said to him, ‘Abraham!’… Then He said, ‘Take now your son… and offer him there as a burnt offering.’”
(Genesis 22:1–2)
Abraham obeyed, and God declared:
“Now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.”
(Genesis 22:12)
Tests can also prepare believers for future service. David faced many trials before becoming king, and each one shaped him for leadership. Joseph was tested by betrayal, slavery, and prison before being exalted to save many lives.
Psalm 66 reflects on this process:
“For You, O God, have tested us; You have refined us as silver is refined.”
(Psalm 66:10)
In the New Testament, testing is connected with faith and endurance:
“Knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”
(James 1:3)
God’s tests are not temptations to sin. James clarifies:
“Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.”
(James 1:13)
God tests to grow, not destroy. The goal is always trust, obedience, and spiritual fruit. When believers pass the test, they glorify God and strengthen their walk.