God uses tests to develop His relationship with His people. He uses test to show-ff the priceless value of our faith and to bring praise, glory, and honor to Himself through the display of our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). He uses testing to help us learn the fear of the Lord in order that we wouldn't sin (Exodus 20:20). His testing makes us humble and reveals what is truly in our hearts (Deuteronomy 8:2). Often times, He lets us try things our own way to show us just how weak we really are. We took a look at King Hezekiah in 2 Chronicles 32:29-31.
He made cities for himself and acquired flocks and herds in abundance, for God had given him very great wealth. It was Hezekiah who stopped the upper outlet of the waters of Gihon and directed them to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all that he did. Even in the matter of the envoys of the rulers of Babylon, who sent to him to inquire of the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him alone only to test him, that He might know all that was in his heart.
God blessed Hezekiah amazingly. He was a king that feared the Lord... and yet, God "left him alone" for a time so that he would realize what was really in his heart. Honestly, it's a completely stupid thing he did... to share with his enemies all about his wealth, but that's exactly what we do when we aren't depending on God. We can do some very bad things when He isn't helping us be obedient. Remember that every good thing comes from above. We would not obey if it weren't for Him helping us. Sometimes He tests us through trials, and other times He tests us through great blessing. His tests are meant for us to pass in order to glorify Him. We must stay fully committed to Him!
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