John 6:6

“But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do.” — John 6:6

This verse shuts down the lie that God never tests people.

He tested Job through deep suffering.

He tested Abraham when He asked him to lay down Isaac.

He tested the Israelites in the wilderness to see what was in their hearts.

And here, in the New Testament, He tested Philip.

But let’s be clear:

Testing is not the same as tempting.

God never tempts us to sin or rebel against His Word.

Temptation comes to lead us astray.

But testing is meant to draw us closer—to strengthen our faith and refine our hearts.

When Jesus asked Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?”

He wasn’t looking for a solution. He was looking into Philip’s heart.

The test wasn’t for Jesus to learn something. He already knew what He would do. The test was for Philip to see himself.

And here’s the sobering truth:

Time spent with Jesus does not always mean we know Him deeply.

Philip walked with Jesus. He saw miracles. He heard His teachings.

But when tested, he leaned on logic instead of faith.

“Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not enough…”

In seasons of testing, the truth of our heart is exposed.

This is where the foundation of your faith is revealed.

This is when your mind and heart speak loudly. Who do you truly rely on?

Is it God who sits on the throne of your heart. Or is it you?

Testing shows whether we trust God, or only adore Him when it’s easy and we’re comfortable.

Do we love Him for who He is or for what He gives?

Because the real test is this:

Will we still believe when the math doesn’t add up?

When we’re outnumbered, under-resourced, and unsure?

Do we value Him above all else?

More than silver and gold, More than comfort and control, More than the answers we’re desperate for?

The testing season asks: Will you lean on your own understanding. Or trust the One who already knows what He will do?

And remember this:

God doesn’t test to brough us harm but to give us hope and future.

He tests to show you where you are, so He can lead you where He wants you to be.

It’s in the test that your faith is made pure. It’s in the test where obedience becomes worship. And it’s in the test where miracles are born, when you bring what little you have and place it in the hands of Jesus.

So let me ask you this:

Has the testing in your life brought you closer to Jesus or turned you away from Him?