In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith–more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire–may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7

Hurricanes, fires, COVID-19, job loss, riots, protests, family tensions high. We are in a season of testing. Testing of our faith.

The refiner of gold heated the gold until it melted and dross rose to the top. The refiner scraped off the dross and continued to heat the gold until more dross rose to the top, and he scraped it off again. When the refiner saw his face reflected in the gold, he turned down the heat, for the gold had been refined – purified.

We live in a fallen world – world with much dross in it. God’s people are in this world but not of this world. We are citizens of God’s kingdom.

While in this world, we endure hardships and disappointments. How we endure those trials demonstrates our faith. As we see God at work through these trials using them for His good, our faith grows stronger and honors God.

Pray for the firefighters who are presently battling the Apple Fire in Cherry Valley, California. Pray for the thousands of evacuated residents and for those who have stayed behind to care for horses and other animals. Perseverance in the fire.

Pray for the doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers who are battling COVID-19. Perseverance in the pandemic.

Pray for the rescuers, first responders, and good citizens during Hurricane Isaias. Perseverance in the storm.

Pray for the safety and composure of the police during the protests. Perseverance in the rage.

Pray that you would demonstrate your genuine faith as you are being tested and that you would glorify, praise, and honor Jesus Christ in all your trials. Perseverance in the refiner’s fire.

My prayer

Father, thank You for firefighters, first responders, and all those working to preserve the lives of people and animals in the midst of the Apple Fire in Cherry Valley. Place Your hedge of protection around them and keep them safe and strong.

We pray for those who have been evacuated because of the fire. Give them peace, Lord.

Bless the healthcare workers who have persevered for these long months to restore the health of millions of people afflicted with COVID-19. Give them rest, health, and peace.

Father, empower those who are first responders and unsung heroes in the midst of Hurricane Isaias to save the lives of all at risk.

Almighty God, You know the plans that You have for each law enforcement officer, and they are good. Empower them to become peacemakers in the midst of rage. Give them Your peace that passes all understanding and Your wisdom as they preserve peace.

Finally, Father, may these trials refine us as pure gold. May we display genuine faith and bring glory, praise, and honor to You through it all.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I’m praying for you, Karen.

Let’s start a prayer chain. Share your prayer in the Comments Section.

Photo by Monte Hammer © 2020