Friday, February 22, 2013

Stuck in the Furnace



“…the Lord took you and brought you out of the iron-smelting furnace…” Deut. 4:20

 

The iron furnace is one place I want to avoid. Yet, I have been there—often. How about you? When life’s struggles keep the heat up higher than I want, I want to escape. I beg to have the thermostat lowered; I cry for the air conditioned room or at least to open a window. Deliverance is my goal. Escape is my only thought. It can feel like I am isolated and alone, fighting to breathe. The enemy would like me to think I am because his plan for me is ugly and raw.

 

Never thought about the enemy having plans? Oh, he does. And, according to Ephesians 6:10 we need to stand against his schemes. So, when the furnace of affliction heats up, what can we do?

 

1.      Remember that God promises to be with us no matter what we face

2.      Stay focused on what God says His plans are for you: Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28

 

When we focus on God’s promises and His plans we keep the enemy from winning a victory in our lives. The enemy wants to takes us down the slippery slope of the Deadly D’s so that we become ineffective in our walk. His plans are to make you:

 

Doubt which leads to...

Discouragement, which leads to...

Defeat and onto...

Despair.

 

Don’t let the enemy drain you of your joy and hope. God is bigger; God is able; He will bring victory when we allow Him to fight for us. Remember the story of Meschach, Shadrach and Abednego (Daniel 3)? They weren’t in the furnace alone.

 

Jesus promises abundant life, joy and peace beyond our understanding when I keep my eyes on Him. Even in the midst of affliction I can know His presence. I can trust Him to work all things out for good. I will trust Him to deliver me from the heat of affliction and for His Spirit to send a fresh breeze of mercy and grace.

 

How has the furnace impacted you? Do you have a promise to share with others who may be in the heat of affliction?
 

 

May you focus on God’s promises in the midst of your furnace,
 

 

Jeanne
 

 

For standing firm against the Evil One, study Ephesians 6 about the armor of God.

 

9 comments:

  1. Hi Jeanne

    I am new to your blog and would like to thank you for this encouraging message. I've been in the iron furnace for the past ten years now as I battle against Rheumatoid Arthritis since the age of 25. Because of permanent damage I'm unable to bend both my wrists. I know for sure that God is with me in this time and that he is moulding me and purifying me. It's not always easy, but I believe that He will heal me one day, when the time is right. He gave me Isaiah 53:5 to believe in and the story of king Hezekiah as promise. Also the story of Joshua and Caleb who had to believe for 30 years before they could enter the promised land. We must remember that God's ways are not our ways and all we must do is trust in His love and goodness. He has a plan for His children.
    God bless
    Madeleine

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  2. Thank your for your courage, Madeleine. He is very near to you in your struggles. Your belief and trust encourage others as they witness your reactions. Not that we have to be 'up' all the time--but that we show the Fruit of the Spirit in the midst of our trouble. It is a huge message to those in your world. Be strong and Courageous--for He goes with you.
    Praying for you!

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    1. Thank you!
      I must add that we as children of God are watched very closely by non believers in our times of suffering. That's why we have the responsibility to always glorify God in all things. For that we need to surrender to the Holy Spirit and, like you said, show them the fruits of the Spirit.

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  3. Amen, our light will shine in the darkness, my sister. We will reflect His glory to onlookers and grace to the needy

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  4. I needed to read this today, Jeanne! Thank you!

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  5. I was stuck in the furnace for years but I know that the great promises of God sustained me! Thank God for you Jeanne; what confirmation to others who may be struggling. Stand and keep on standing!

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  6. Western NY....thanks for your testimony to God's faithfulness! He is with us every step of the way and often carries us when necessary :)

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  7. He holds my right hand! That's a promise I hold onto. :)

    Love & Blessings,
    Danie

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