Through the Fire

Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.



There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother, it says in Proverbs. The Lord Jesus. He walks among his dearly loved followers. He stays close to the ones He died to redeem. "I am with you always," He assured his disciples. Friends do not always stay near by, especially when the fire of trial comes. But here is one who walks even through the fire with His precious beloved. "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5) is His promise.

I don't understand all the trials we go through. There is pain and suffering, but He stands at the side of those who look to Him, to strengthen them and to bring them through unscathed. The promise is not that there will never be any fire to walk through. But that the flames will not harm you. A Bible verse says that the valley of Baca will be turned into a place of springs (Psalm 84:6).

Hold my hand, mighty Lord, yet gentle and humble. Powerful Savior, yet sympathetic to my weakness, bring me safely through the fire. I have found that comfort that you promise, Jesus. You comfort your sheep and guide them safely past the fierce wolves. Strengthen my faith, Lord, when it falters. Remind me of your mighty works, even preserving your people through the floods and fire. I find peace knowing you will bring us safely into your eternal paradise. So be it and Amen.