Happy Friday! It is November 8, 2024. Life has its twists and turns. Sometimes, it treats you well; other times, it tests you hard. One season may feel like an oasis, while another feels like a desert. But neither is right or wrong. One reveals our blessings, while the other reveals our strength. Read on…
Today's Reading:
Job 33; 1 Corinthians 1,2,3
Scripture
"...and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire." (1 Corinthians 3:13-15)
Observation
I remember rebuilding my first engine—a Ford 312 motor. I changed the piston rings, ground the valves, installed new camshaft bearings, torqued the bolts, and meticulously painted each part. It looked brand new, and I was so proud of myself. From a rusty, ugly engine emerged a beautiful, powerful machine with shades of red, black, and yellow. I fired it up, and it growled like a lion on the hunt! I drove it around the neighborhood, eager to show my friends. There was only one problem—I forgot to use heat-resistant paint.
A block or two into my drive, I began smelling something awful. Smoke started billowing out of the engine. I quickly drove it home, and when I opened the hood, all the paint had burned off. It was back to that same nasty, ugly engine it had been in the beginning!
Application
The Bible reminds us that fire, or heat, will reveal what’s underneath. (I kept the hood closed from that day on.) Often, we want an engine that looks impressive, one others will admire, rather than one that not only runs well but is also resistant to heat.
Looking good may be nice, but it’s not something to pat ourselves on the back about. Sooner or later, heat will test us all.
For me, this is a season to run the engine—to make forward progress and get involved. But I must be prepared… there will be some heat. If I can’t handle a little heat, I’ll never win the race.
Prayer
Father, I am willing to put into action what You have taught me. However, help me to be a heat-resistant saint so I can represent You well… mile after mile.
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