Sometimes you hear a theme so encouraging you want to share it. That’s what’s happening today. A note was sent to me on Messenger where the timing was impeccable. It was only later that I realized the post was sent in April. I received it in December! Apparently, God was holding it until just the right time.

The scripture verse was rather alarming. “See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction” (Isaiah 48:10). Because of Israel’s stubborn and unfaithful heart, Jerusalem had fallen and God was exiling the nation to Babylon. There, God would refine them.

Being refined is not a pleasant experience. Having impurities removed typically includes trials or testing. In the heat of that furnace, we choose whether we will give up, become hard-hearted and bitter, or if we will surrender to God’s will. The process may include the difficult act of forgiving those who have hurt us or refusing to be easily offended. We may be challenged to work on uncomfortable relationships by reaching out and extending mercy and grace.

In order to move forward, we need to keep believing even though circumstances feel impossible. We strive to remain faithful even when situations are completely unfair. We hang on even when we don’t see the answer we desire.

Recall the three faithful men in the Old Testament who were placed in a fiery furnace by a wicked king. Remember, they were not alone. A fourth “man” was seen with them. The three then walked out of that furnace unscathed, not even smelling like smoke! (Daniel 3)

Know that God is also with us in our trials. With Him, our faith grows stronger and we become ready for God to use us for a higher purpose.