Fires are scary and dangerous. Recent fires have caused loss of many lives and much damage. Sometimes what comes into our lives seem like the flames of fire ready to engulf us.
As I was talking with the LORD about my kids, grandchildren, and friends and my concern over their struggles a word came to mind and I knew it was a part of the title of a song. So, I grabbed my old hymnal and went to the back under 1st line listings. The word was “how” and there was only one “how”. “How firm a foundation”. Turning to it I began to sing.
“How firm a foundation ye saints (believers) of the LORD is laid for your faith in HIS excellent Word” On and on I sang, each stanza based on a promise given in the Bible. Then I came to a line that answered the cry of my heart for my loved family and friends who are struggling or are where they should not be. And GOD said, “See, Sharon, I am at work.”
This is true for you and your loved ones as well. The promise is given and explained in 2 Corinthians 4:15-18, in Hosea 5:15 and Zechariah 13:9.
The words that jumped off the page were: The flames shall not hurt you, I only design your dross to consume and your gold to refine.
What a glorious, awesome truth that whatever comes our way, or to our friends and loved ones, is not allowed for the purpose of hurting us but is being used of GOD to consume (get rid of) the bad in us and/or refine (perfect and polish) the good so we will shine like polished gold.
I urge you in CHRIST’s stead to consider these things and may the good LORD give you wisdom and understanding (James 1:5, 1 Corinthians 2:10) as HE guides you with HIS peace (Colossians 3:15), strengthens you with HIS joy (Nehemiah 8:10), and enables you with HIS grace (Hebrews 4:16). Now may the GOD of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the HOLY SPIRIT.”(Romans 15:13) Keep looking unto JESUS (Hebrews 12:2) and talk over your thoughts with HIM (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Hugs
Sharon
wakemyear 