The Furnace of Affliction

 THE FURNACE OF AFFLICTION

“Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.” - Isaiah 48:10 

It seems that some people suffer more than others. I've known some who suffer for decades while others their age seem to have little or no problems. Pain and suffering are real issues that we must face in this life.

Despite teaching to the contrary, becoming a Christian does not give a person immunity from suffering. Many people suffered in the Scriptures. Job suffered greatly. Paul struggled with a thorn in the flesh. Jesus was nailed to a cross.

As a Christian, I know that pain and purpose often go together. Although God is not the source of suffering, He does permit it. Our human limitations keep us from appreciating this truth.

I am not attempting to give a reason for each incident of suffering. God permits suffering for various reasons. However, I do want to focus on one reason for our suffering. There are times God uses suffering to refine His people. Suffering is an excellent way to melt the dross away from the saint. God often uses the trials of life to filter out the impurities of our lives. God said, “Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.”

If you're like me, suffering probably drives you to pray for relief rather refinement. We want instant deliverance and immediate healing when suffering arises. There are times God graciously allows this to occur. At other times, we must endure the harsh reality of pain by God's grace. It could be that in these times of endurance that God refines us.

Refinement has a way of deepening our faith, strengthening our resolve, and cultivating empathy for others who suffer. When God refines us, we grow to fuller depths of maturity. We tend to humble ourselves in such situations and, as such, make ourselves more useful in the hands of the Potter.

We would know far less about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego if they hadn't gone through a fire. The Christians you respect most are those who've probably endured the fire of affliction.

God never promised us that life would be free of obstacles, trials, pain and suffering. His ultimate goal is our spiritual maturity, not financial security or physical health. Although happiness is not a wrong feeling to desire, God wants us to desire holiness first. Holy living will bring joy --- which is a far better experience than mere happiness.

The good news is that believers will only endure the furnace of affliction for just a short period of time. Afflictions all end at death. Glory awaits beyond the grave.

If you are going through the fire, I encourage you to live by faith. The fourth man who showed up in the fire with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego is there with you during your affliction. You can trust Him with your life and your future.