Through the Fire

And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God.Zechariah 13:9 (emphasis mine) KJV 

Last fall forest fires burned through our mountains. The sky was a gray haze and we smelled smoke for days. Animals running from the fires showed up in neighborhoods and other unusual places. Finally the rains came and helped the firemen get the fires under control. 

This spring the grass is growing back. Flowers are awakening on the charred forest floor. Little sprouts that would never have seen the light of day are coming up through the humus and ash. Damaged trees are being used by the wildlife for homes. The forest is coming back to life more beautiful than ever.  

Our family has been through some "fires" this year as well. Serious health issues loomed over us like gray smoke. Broken homes have torn hearts apart and looked as if they would burn families down. Like the animals in the forest, we wanted to run away, but where? To God! We called on His name and He heard us. God has healed the cancer victim, the broken bones and is healing the hearts of broken homes. I've seen the ones most hurt give God the glory for the all He has brought them through, making them stronger, better Christians than ever before.  

We serve a mighty God. When the fires and the storms of life come. Run to God. Call on His name. He may refine us, but He will hear us and we will say, "The Lord is my God." 

Hey Kids: 

Last week I challenged you to look for things in nature damaged by fire or storms. 

How has the storms and fires changed their purpose?  

This week think about the challenges and trials you and your family or friends are going through or have already been through.  

How did you or are you meeting the trials? 

How is God using these trials to strengthen you and your family in your Christian walk? 

Please share your testimonies so that God receives the glory. 

Blessings, 

Gail