Times Of Refining

We were told of a day when we would be subject to false accusations and slander, as those that cast stones resent the furtherance of the Gospel. This is nothing new… the disciples were slandered often and even Jesus was accused of working under the power of Satan. These refining fires aren’t bad as they bring clarity, burning away what isn’t beneficial to the work of God and revealing to us what needs to be let go. This process is painful, uncomfortable and challenging. But above all, we pray that we respond to the Surgeon’s scalpel as we should… thankful, humbled, and willing to be refined for His glory and work.

“For no one can lay any other foundation other than the One already laid - which is Christ Jesus. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or stubble, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work” (1 Corinthians 3:11-13).

What are these “additional building supplies” brought to build upon the foundation of Christ? They are man’s works, man’s glory and pride, and a promotion of edgy doctrine to draw attention to self. These are faulty building materials that will burn up under the scrutiny of God’s holy inspection.

True building materials are wrought from trials, bringing humility… “These trials have come to prove the genuineness of your faith - of greater worth than gold which perishes - even though refined by fire, may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed” (1 Peter 1:7).

I pray we all continue to run the race before us with patience and endurance, recognizing that our work is not in vain, but to the saving of souls.

(Devotional by Cheryl Hall-Laos)