Search Results for: blog trials and faith trial by fire

Gospel Doctrine: Unquenchable Fire

As I studied a bit more in Matthew 3, I stumbled across John’s warning to the Pharisees and Sadducees (verse 12). As many prophets have warned, those trees which fail to bring forth good fruit will be cast into the fire. There are a variety of references to fire in the scriptures. Sometimes, the fire is used to refine; at others, it is described as torment for those who fail to follow Christ. The refiners fire is often brief, and purifies and strengthens us. Impurities are removed, and we come through it closer to our Savior. In our everyday lives, … Continue reading →

Gospel Doctrine: Daniel and the King

This week’s lesson covers both Daniel and Esther. I’d like to take a few minutes to focus on the first six chapters of Daniel and one of the lessons that caught my attention. As I began reading a few chapters, I confess that I began to wonder about this king Nebuchadnezzar. After hearing Daniel explain his visions and seeing Shadrach (Hananiah), Meshach (Mishael), Abed-nego (Azariah) thrown into the fiery furnace, how, I wondered, could he throw Daniel into the lion’s den? The answer, I am embarrassed to admit, is in the scriptures. King Nebuchadnezzar did not throw Daniel in the … Continue reading →

Trials and Faith: Jesus Freaks

I’m not here to write about the song “Jesus Freak” by Christian band DC Talk or even the Jesus Freak movement of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. I’m here to talk about the book put out by DC Talk and The Voice of the Martyrs entitled, Jesus Freaks: Stories of Those Who Stood for Jesus: The Ultimate Jesus Freaks. This book is so much more than just a creatively antique-looking book with its grungy cover and torn parchment-like pages. Inside this book lie the stories of many faithful who put their faith in Jesus, even as it meant their … Continue reading →

Trials and Faith: Resisting Temptation to Sin

I am encouraged by what the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” We will all go through temptation. Not even Jesus was immune to Satan’s temptation while living here on earth. I hear people talk about God testing their faith when they are going through hard times; once in a while, I … Continue reading →

Trials and Faith: The First Christian Martyr

I’d like to share the story of Stephen that took place about 34 AD. Mention of him can be found in Acts chapter 6 and 7 of the Bible. He was said to be a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. He had the power of the Holy Spirit working through him, and was full of wisdom. There were men who came to take Stephen to council because he put Jesus over the customs of Moses. As Stephen gave his testimony in front of the council, it was said they saw his face as the face of an … Continue reading →

Trials and Faith: Persecution

Throughout the Bible we can read stories of persecution to those who followed God. Some were even martyred for their beliefs. The persecution of Christians, among others, is still happening today. In some nations like China, Christians are forced to register with the government in order to attend a certain congregation. You might have heard of underground churches there where Christians are gathering in secret so they can worship God freely. Time magazine did a story a few months ago on this topic. Folks, this is not just happening in China, it’s happening all over! Christians have suffered beating, and … Continue reading →

Trials of Faith: Trial by Fire

God can take the trials of our lives and turn them into glory for Him if we will allow it. When going through difficult times, I try to look at the situation as a refining of my faith. I know God didn’t make the trial happen, but that He can use it to show me that He is in control because He is God. Taking a look at 1 Peter 4:12-13: “Beloved, do not thing it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that … Continue reading →

Trials and Faith: The Storm

One of my favorite Bible stories is the one about Peter in the storm. I can relate so much to this story. Here’s an overview of what happens in Matthew 14:22-33: Jesus’ disciples were in a boat at night during a storm in the midst of the sea. While straining to row, Jesus appeared to them walking on the water. The men were frightened at first wondering if they were looking at a ghost. But Jesus told them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” Peter tested the Lord by suggesting, if it is really Him, … Continue reading →

Trials and Faith: Why is This Happening?

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In preparing to wrap up my series of Trials and Faith, I receive and email from a long time best-friend. It was a heartfelt prayer request for her friend’s family. This urgent request inspired me to write this blog and release it now rather than later. The prayer request was regarding a little boy who is now 3 who’d had brain cancer. He’d gone through at least radiation treatment, only to find out recently, his cancer returned. It was told to me that he will not be able to have any further radiation treatment and the type of cancer he … Continue reading →

Trials and Faith: Intro

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You may have heard it said there are three kinds of people: Those who have been through trials, those who are going through trials, and those who are going to go through trials. Throughout the Bible we are told of the trials and tribulations to come. We live in a fallen world and none of us are exempt. Satan’s mission is simple; he comes to rob steal and destroy (John10:10). I’m starting a series on various trials and faith. I will be talking about common trials and hardships in our lives, persecution of the Christian church, martyrs, and what we … Continue reading →