The Beauty in the Burn
But He knows the way
that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.
Job 23:10
Recently
I did a complete study over refiner’s fire.
I always enjoy my time at the feet of Jesus.
Sometimes I sit for a few minutes and other times I sit down for hours because
I go down rabbit holes. On this particular day God knew exactly what he was
doing.
I
had reached my breaking point, feeling utterly frustrated and overwhelmed.
It’s
almost ironic that my devotional began discussing the concept of the refiner's
fire, illustrating how God uses trials to shape us into His likeness. While
this transformation is undeniably beautiful, the process itself can be anything
but pleasant, especially for those enduring the hardships.
As I sat there, I
reflected on how the Lord often communicates through music, using songs and
hymns to help me remember Bible verses. He understands that music resonates
deeply within my heart. Suddenly, a song from years past surfaced in my mind,
and I could see Brother Gary singing it. I closed my eyes, allowing the
memories to wash over me.
Refiners Fire
My hearts one desire is
to be Holy
Set Apart for you Lord…
I choose to be Holy
I
couldn’t stop singing it. I stayed there with my hands lifted high, tears
falling, fully surrendered.
This
past year has definitely been a journey of personal refinement, one that many
may not realize I experienced. I faced individuals who shattered my spirit,
engaging in gossip and slander, labeling me with identities that were far from
my own. It felt like every corner I turned, there was another whisper, another
assumption, another door closed.
I
found myself excluded from spaces I longed to be part of, yet it was clear that
my desires clashed with a greater plan. Ultimately, it was not meant for me to
occupy those places, as I came to understand that what I wanted was not aligned
with what was intended for me.
At
the time it felt absolutely awful…
WHY
are you doing this, Lord? (I cried this prayer a lot.)
I
found myself often on my knees, immersed in my Bible, gazing up at my shepherd
for guidance and strength. My eyes were always fixed on him.
He
remarked at that moment that this refinement was something you truly needed.
He
shattered my heart in the same way that his is broken for the lost.
Compassion,
grace, forgiveness, and love are essential qualities that remain steadfast
regardless of the situation, and these attributes are particularly crucial for
those who are called to serve in ministry.
Seasons
in life serve a purpose; they are designed for our growth and often push us out
of our comfort zones. More importantly, these periods are opportunities for
refinement, helping us to become more like Jesus. Embrace the challenges that
come with each season, as they contribute to your spiritual development and
transformation.
I
am far from perfect, but I understand that every challenge I face carries a
valuable lesson. The process of being refined by a loving Father is something
we should always cherish and never underestimate.
You’ll come out of the
valley refined: stronger, wiser, and walking even closer with Jesus.
In all this you greatly
rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief… These
have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith... may result in praise,
glory and honor..
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