Testing

 In distress you called, and I delivered you; I answered you in the secret place of thunder; I tested you at the waters of Meribah. Selah
Psalm 81:7 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/psa.81.7.ESV

In the immediate context, the Psalmist is referring to the children of Israel, fleeing slavery in Egypt. Yet it could also apply to God's new covenant people. We are escaping from slavery to sin.

To escape addiction to sin, we need to be distressed by it. Then we need to call out for salvation. Then finally God will assuredly deliver us.

God often speaks to us in the hard times. He can speak to us in the whisper of the wind through the trees. Yet He can also speak to us more loudly through thunderous circumstances.

Those God redeems He tests, in order that we might come out purer than gold. He often tests us by removing necessities from us like food, drink and shelter. That was the case at Meribah for the Israelites.

'O Lord God, we ask that we might worship You whatever our temporal circumstances. Please prove us to be Your children, and help us honour You in our lives. In Jesus' name, amen'

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