Thursday, January 24, 2008

The Way of the Fire

Happy New Year! I know that’s more than just a little late, but it’s relevant to what I want to talk about. If you’re a part of our local body then you’ve prob’ly heard it said many times that this is “The Year of New Beginnings” as well as “The Year of Proclamation”. And I can testify that both have already begun. I think there are new beginnings in my life because I’m being put in a place to proclaim. They’re intertwined, at least in my case.

I took the first step without fear

I didn’t see the danger of what His stream could do

And then I felt the undertow

Of all the things I asked for coming true

It’s the way of the fire

Just one step into the flame

It’s the way of the fire

He starts consuming everything

And it’s all gonna burn

I’m refined and strengthened by

The way of the fire

Now, in reference to the song quoted above. I can’t tell you for how long I’ve prayed for the Lord to burn up the things in me that do not glorify Him. It’s a constant cry of my heart, one that I hope will never cease. Again He has proven Himself faithful to a fault! He will always do what we’ve asked Him to. But I don’t think I really have to tell you that. The light is getting brighter and the fire is growing hotter and spreading in my life.

But instead of pulling away from the heat as I’ve done before I’ve stubbornly dug my heels in to do the work that needs doing. God is teaching me things I should’ve learned a long time ago. I’m learning to be silent when it’s hard. I’m learning how to bear things patiently, quietly. There is a joy that comes through pain and brokenness that is unlike any other! I’m seeing my heart change even though none of my circumstances are changing, which builds my faith! There isn’t always peace in my surroundings, but I have a peace within that no one can take away! I know that sounds like a long list of “Christian clichés”, but I mean it sincerely.

Jesus told the disciples at one point that He would send the comforter – who we know as the Holy Spirit. But Leonard Ravenhill points out that the word “comforter” there doesn’t mean a nursing mother for crying babes, but is translated, “with strength or power”. I thought that was really interesting considering that seems to be exactly what He’s giving to me – comfort in His strength. As many times as I’ve wanted to say, “I can’t handle this anymore!” in the past few weeks, I know that isn’t true. His grace never runs out. That’s something I’ve always known in my head, something I know I’ve told other people in their fiery trials, but never had to walk out in faith... until now.

So anyway, I just wanted to share with y’all what’s been going on in my life lately. I know this is just a vague summary and long overdue, but truth be told I never know quite what to say in the midst of these things!

And for those of you who want a sneak preview of what’s to come, God’s really been speaking to some of us about the true meaning of being a disciple, or discipline. So be expecting to hear from me on that soon!

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