“The genuineness of your faith…though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:7

The Fire

One day last week I was having a very challenging day—on just about every level. I was feeling quite overwhelmed. I took time to sit and cry out to the Lord. I cast my burdens on Him. I thanked Him for His goodness to me on this long unexpected journey. I claimed promises in the Word. I spoke out my trust that His grace is sufficient. And I told Him I couldn’t make it without Him.

As I prayed, I could almost physically feel the Lord lifting the heavy burdens from my heart. The weight had been so heavy! But God was lifting it from my heart, my mind, my emotions, and my body. By the time I went to bed that evening, my spirit was light! He is truly our burden-bearer when we call out to Him.

I wanted to share this testimony to His goodness and faithfulness as an encouragement. I truly believe that when we trust Him, and when we choose to rejoice in hard times, a miracle happens. Our trust and hope lift us above our circumstances. It releases renewed hope, and joy—even though things might still be difficult. Only God can do that!

Sometimes when we’re in a difficult season, we may wonder why God isn’t doing something. Why isn’t He answering our prayers? A Bible teacher named Ronald Dunn said, “God isn’t an arsonist. He’s a refiner.”

We may feel the heat, but we won’t be burned up! The testing of our faith—the trials and fires we walk through—only “refine” us. God walks right beside us as He works in our lives to refine us and make us more like Him.

Father, we can’t make it alone. We know the fires are for refining, not for destroying. Walk beside us, Lord. Remind us You are with us. Amen.