Refined by Fireنموونە

Embracing Refinement and Testing

Today’s scripture gives us deep insight into the journey of refinement in our walk with God.

Psalm 66:12 (NKJV)
“You have caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water, but You brought us out to rich fulfillment.”

In Hebrew, the word for fire here is אֵשׁ (esh), often symbolizing purification and judgment in scripture. Fire burns away impurities, much like a refiner purifying gold (Malachi 3:2-3). The term for water, מַיִם (mayim), can signify overwhelming circumstances or chaos, but it also represents cleansing and new beginnings. God allows both fire and water—different types of trials—to shape and purify us.

The phrase "men riding over our heads" can be seen as a symbol of oppressive rule. The Hebrew word for ride here, רָכַב (rakav), can imply being subjected to domination or hardship, much like the Israelites were under Egyptian rule. This also hints at spiritual oppression, where the enemy tries to trample over us. But these trials are temporary; God uses them to prepare us for breakthroughs.

Imagine a potter working with clay. Before the clay can be molded into something beautiful, it must undergo a process. First, it’s shaped, but the potter must put it into the fire to hold its form. The heat hardens it, making it stronger. Without the fire, the vessel would collapse under pressure. Similarly, we go through life's “fire” and “water,” but God is using these trials to strengthen us, preparing us for His greater purpose.

Refinement is necessary for spiritual maturity. Just like gold passes through intense heat to be purified, we must endure hardships to remove the weight of pride, insecurity, or fear. These burdens must be burned off so we can “travel light,” soaring higher in God's purpose.

Prayer:
Lord, as I pass through trials of fire and water, help me trust Your process. Purify my heart, refine my spirit, and burn away anything that hinders my walk with You. Thank You for preparing me for the wealthy place You have promised. In Jesus’ name, Amen.