Providence refers to the divine guidance and care that God exercises over His creation. It is the means by which God directs all things—both animate and inanimate, seen and unseen, good and evil—toward a worthy purpose, which ultimately fulfills His will. The concept of providence is deeply rooted in Scripture and is a testament to God's sovereignty, wisdom, and love.

The Bible presents numerous examples of God's providence. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph, reflecting on his journey from slavery to becoming a ruler in Egypt, tells his brothers, "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people." This illustrates how God can use even the evil intentions of humans to bring about His good purposes.

In the New Testament, Romans 8:28 affirms, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." This verse reassures believers that God's providential care is always at work, orchestrating every detail of their lives for their ultimate good and His glory.

The doctrine of providence also encompasses God's provision for His people. In Matthew 6:26, Jesus teaches, "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" This passage emphasizes God's attentive care and provision for His creation, encouraging believers to trust in His faithful provision.

Testing

Testing in the biblical context refers to the trials and challenges that God allows or brings into the lives of His people to refine their faith, develop their character, and demonstrate their obedience. Testing is a recurring theme throughout Scripture and serves as a means by which God strengthens the faith of His followers.

One of the most notable examples of testing is found in the account of Abraham. In Genesis 22:1-2, God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. "Some time later God tested Abraham and said to him, 'Abraham!' 'Here I am,' he replied. 'Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the land of Moriah. Offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you.'" Abraham's willingness to obey demonstrated his profound faith and trust in God, and God ultimately provided a ram as a substitute for Isaac.

The New Testament also addresses the concept of testing. James 1:2-4 encourages believers, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." This passage highlights the purpose of testing as a means to spiritual maturity and completeness.

Testing is not only a means of personal growth but also a way to reveal the genuineness of one's faith. In 1 Peter 1:6-7, the apostle Peter writes, "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials, so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."

In summary, both providence and testing are integral aspects of the Christian faith, demonstrating God's active involvement in the lives of His people and His desire for their growth and ultimate good.