Fiery Furnaces

 by Macy Johnson

“If we are thrown into the blazing furnace,

the God we serve is able to save us from it,

and He will rescue us from your hand.”

(Daniel 3:17 NIV)

 

I firmly believe when I am taught a new lesson from scripture, I can expect a test along those lines pretty soon after.

 

The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel chapter 3 is one of my favorite Bible truths. Paige Brown of West End Community Church recently brought it to life for me in her online study in the book of Daniel. Although the three men were bound with ropes when thrown into the furnace, they walked around with a visitor. The blaze burned off their ropes, but did not singe a single hair on their heads. They were free!

 

My last thoughts before tripping and falling down were of reaching for the door knob. I knew the cement steps of the old church building were not the same height, but was temporarily distracted. It was my own fault. I was thrown into a fiery furnace - the pain, bruises, nose bleed, and humiliation, in order to grow stronger in my faith.  

 

A dear friend and fellow musician received a concussion from a fall one evening at choir practice. She recovered gradually over a period of weeks. Another friend discovered a tumor on her ovary. Another had COVID.

 

“Though he stumble, he will not fall,

for the Lord upholds him with His hand.”

(Psalm 37:24 NIV)

 

Suffering is required for spiritual growth. We must be purified. I hope my fiery furnaces will test and refine my faith in God like Daniel’s friends. I pray for all who struggle in life that they will cling to Jesus for hope.

 

I will be more deliberate and careful in my physical and spiritual walk. I hope you will, too!