Do not think it strange, the fiery trial, when it comes upon you; for I have delivered you before, and I will deliver you again. The tests and trials not only try your faith, but serve to prove your stance. If you were never to meet adversity, how then would you know where you stand?

• Is your faith strong or weak?
• Does your future look bleak, when trials appear?
• Does depression cloud that once happy heart?

All of these and many more, are ‘questions’ of the heart. But remember this, you who struggle with life;  just as ‘suddenly’ this trial appeared, the end will be in sight.

For I know the beginning and the end

Of this you may be sure.

And I will surely watch out, for one whose heart, to Me remains so pure.

So if your life should throw you a curve, of a kind you did not expect

Bear this in mind–Be still and find, that it’s not you I would reject. But the one who puts you to the test, an enemy, that’s for sure. For he is jealous, and seeks to slay, the one who is so pure.

Therefore, stand tall, and do not give the devil any due. For he is the one I did reject–certainly it wasn’t you!

Fear not My dear one, and be not dismayed

for as you know, this too shall pass

your faith won’t be delayed!

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal which comes upon you to prove you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in so far as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” I Peter 4:12-13

“Be still, and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth! The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.” Psalms 46:10-11

“But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were open, and every one’s fetters were unfastened.” Acts 16:25-26

“Blessed is the man who endures trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted of God”; for God cannot be tempted with evil and he himself tempts no one.” James 1:12-13

“When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.–” Isaiah 43:2-3a

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8