By Ann Elaine Broughton

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:12-13 KJV).

I love history and have visited many historical villages where they re-enact life as a pioneer. I always enjoyed watching the smithy. He would take a piece of iron and hold it in the fire until it glowed. Then he would hammer it very hard and then thrust it back into the fire. He would continue doing this many times until he held up a beautiful vine that he had made by welding, forging, and hammering.

You see our lives are like that piece of iron. We are put into the fire to test our faith and how we will respond to trials that come our way. It is so essential that you have a close relationship with your Father in Heaven in order to handle this refining. He is the only one who can give you the strength to make it through it with your faith in tact. At the end of your trial, you will be made more beautiful on the inside if you have believed and gained strength from His love.

Are you going through a fiery trial? Have you gone through a fiery trial? I have been through my share and some, very recently. Going through the fire is no fun, but afterwards I have noticed how much my faith has grown. It is interesting that when I am in the furnace, prayers become fierce and nonstop. I notice that afterwards I become more compassionate towards others who are experiencing troubles. Trials are meant to make you grow as a Christian, and to help you reach out to others when they have needs. It is a refining process that reveals how strong your faith is.

Just remember Christ suffered much more for you, and gave His life.

He understands your trial and will help you.

Dear Lord,

Help us through our fiery trials and give us faith to know that you are there with us. Give us strength and help us learn from it so that we can help others.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen