May 2, 2024

Psalm 66.12 (NIV)
We went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance.

Christianity was never intended merely for clear days and fair weather.*

Fire and water are symbols of extreme danger. As Christians in America, we are seldom compelled to face extreme physical danger, but we face spiritual peril daily. 

God parted the Red Sea for the Israelites; he kept Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego cool in the furnace; he closed the mouths of the lions so they wouldn’t harm Daniel. But he might choose for us to get wet or to get hot or to get bitten. Being a child of God does not insulate us from the hazards of life on Earth. 

This verse speaks of passing through the hazards of fire and water rather than about dwelling there. I can testify that through every dark and scary path I have taken, God has walked along with me, until he brought me to “a place of abundance.” 

“Abundance” is not the same as wealth. The original language here refers to a place that is moist; where there is running water and fruitfulness; a place of refreshment. What good are gold and jewels if you are tired and thirsty? God does not promise to make me rich but he brings me to a place where I wallow in everything that I need. It is a place of peace, not like the calm before the storm but the serenity and refreshing following the storm.

The more we see of what this world has to offer, the more appealing is the Father’s house.*