Tested And Come Forth As Gold

“But He knows the way that I take; for when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10)

How we long for this to be our true confession. We are not yet gold, but long to be. We are not yet fully following his steps, but are trying. We have tried to not turn aside, but we sometimes falter. Thank God for his grace until our intentions and desires are fulfilled in our discipleship!

He knew that when the trials were over, he would emerge from them stronger and brighter than ever before. When we are in the middle of our great despairs in life, do we focus on how God is using our troubles to sharpen us, or do we succumb to panic attacks and pity parties? We would do much better if we could realize that no matter what our problem, the Lord is right beside us.

A wonderful example of this is given in LUKE 24. In this passage, two of Jesus’ disciples were walking toward a village called Emmaus. They were very upset and troubled because they knew that Jesus had been crucified. They were discouraged. And then, what happens? There is a third man who appears on the scene. They must have found comfort in the company of this man, because they talked with him and listened to him. But all during their anguish, they never once realized that Jesus was right beside them; sharing their company as they plodded along down the road.

I want to share a mighty truth with you. God is with you right now. No matter what you might be going through; no matter far you might feel from Him; God is there with you. He might not be felt during certain times, but know that He is there. It is that fact alone, that enables us to be faithful during our bad times. God loves us with a love that is so much more than any of us might love our children. And because He loves us, He will surely take care of us.

We are given that promise in 1 PETER 5:7.
‘ …cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.’

Not only does God promise to stay with us, but He wants us to give Him all our fears and troubles. And when we do, we must remember that God may have a very good reason for not making them disappear instantly. We might have to wait for Him to take us from the fire, but that is because …
Prayer...
Magnificent Creator and Sustainer of the Universe, I confess my sin and my inadequacy in following your paths. Forgive me as I recommit my life to serve you in holiness and joy. Thank you for your grace which covers my sin and perfects in me the character of Jesus. Through him I pray. Amen.

 “Justice is the insurance we have on our lives, and obedience is the premium we pay for it.” (William Penn)