Fires of Testing

None of us can avoid the testing that loss brings. We can’t avoid pain, grief, or suffering. If we could, what a different experience life would be! We do have hope for this kind of life in the kingdom of Christ when it is fully established on earth as it is in heaven. However, this kingdom is still to come.

The fires of life can refine or destroy us. When we yield to the process and let the grace of God burn away what holds us back, we will emerge from the fire purer than when we entered. The essence of what matters becomes clearer in the moments of life or death. May we embrace those things that refine us and let go of things that don’t.

Jesus, you are a restorer and redeemer. You are with me in the fires of this life just as you were with Daniel’s friends in the fiery furnace. Even when I can’t feel your presence, don’t leave me. May my life be refined and seasoned with you.