Our reading for today is Matthew 4:7.
“Jesus replied, ‘It is also written: Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
Jesus was reaching back to Deuteronomy 6:16, where Moses reminded Israel, “Do not test the Lord your God as you tested Him at Massah.” Do you remember Massah? The people were thirsty. Their mouths were dry, their hearts were fearful, and instead of remembering the God who parted seas and rained down bread, they looked at their need and doubted His presence. They asked, “Is the Lord among us or not?” (Exodus 17:7).
That is the meaning of testing God—demanding proof when His promises should be enough. It’s like putting God on trial. “Lord, I’ll believe You, but only if You do this for me.”
But real faith doesn’t bargain. Real faith trusts. Jesus understood this when Satan dared Him to jump from the temple roof. He wouldn’t play games with His Father’s love. He didn’t need another sign. He had His Father’s word, and that was enough.
And isn’t that where we struggle too? We whisper, “Lord, if You fix this, then I’ll trust You.” But faith doesn’t wait for conditions to be met. Faith stands on God’s word even when the circumstances are dry.
Trust Him. Don’t test Him.
I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.