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Sep 14, 2023 06:00am

Refining by Fire

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“…all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
2 Timothy 3:12 (NAS)

Close your eyes and inhale. Did you get a whiff? Fall is just around the corner, even if your thermometer didn’t get the memo. While some of you may be ushering in leggings, leaves, and lattes, I’m sure we can all agree that the cozy bonfires and pumpkin spice mugs of liquid gold will be welcome retreats. My I remind us that those “fires” have lots to teach us spiritually, as well?

Fire illuminates. No matter what you wear, you cannot hide your face from the Father. How much investment are we intentionally setting aside to warm up in His presence? It shows…ask Moses. Prayer allows our sight to adjust in the darkness and focus on the light of His leading.
Fire refines. Examine our responses. Are the BE-attitudes our default setting? Burning can serve a godly purpose to slough off the buildup of self and create a new layer that has tenderness toward God’s mindset…one that only the Sonshine can produce. Be sure to apply the SPF (Spirit-Produced Faithfulness)!
Fire produces flexibility. Ask any jeweler. Those precious metals need heat applied to redirect their shape and ultimate beauty. On their own, they tend to be hard, cold, and “set” in their own ways. Endurance and yielding to the properties of divine heat is crucial for the Master to yield them treasures He can use.
Fire will warm you. Although it may arrive in the form of persecution, prejudice, or personal struggle, its attributes are bone-deep and totally satisfying. Ditch the flannel for the Father. Swap the sweater for the Savior. Instead of the leaves, jump into the joy of Jesus!

So, carve the pumpkins, toast the marshmallows, and enjoy that walk in the woods. Just be reminded that more life-changing than s’mores, hayrides, and cider is the captivating life of abundance in choosing Christ. Haul the wood, enjoy what’s coming…delight yourself not only in this season called fall, but in falling in love with Jesus!