Formed in Fire: Spiritual Development and Standing Courageously

Tests transform what we’ve learned into testimony. In our troubles and triumphs, we refine the gifts He’s given and grow in grace. This enables us to be a blessing to others and increase the anointing, or the Holy Spirit’s power, in the surrendered areas of our lives. In this article, we will look at some areas of spiritual development that are necessary for growth.

As believers, we are already equipped and called by Jesus to carry the Kingdom of God and walk in the greater works Jesus said we’d do (John 14:12). We may be zealous to use our gifts and to do great exploits for and with God as part of our spiritual goals and development.

Jesus also iterated that the world would have tribulation (John 16:33). We get to see and experience it firsthand, as our experiences often demand sacrifice and surrender. They are invitations and opportunities for us to experience the power of God and His divine transformation as part of our spiritual development before we ever do anything for the Lord.

In challenges, we can experience the peace of God that enables us to endure and emerge on the other side. There isn’t a way around it, but in the meantime, we can remind ourselves of what God is doing and that it will have a greater impact than our momentary afflictions (Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17).

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. – 1 Peter 4:12-13, NIV

Consolation

We can receive the consolation, courage, and confidence to bolster our spiritual goals and development that God is present in and through everything. Yet, some of the abilities God has given us are heat-activated and don’t fully open until we are in the midst of a fiery trial.

The young Hebrew men were fully acquainted with this, literally and metaphorically. They experienced a resolve that enabled them to stand up in an idolatrous culture. They were unwilling to bow to the spirit of the age that had brought others to their knees. Although they experienced persecution, they didn’t waver in their declaration, reiterating that even if the Lord didn’t deliver, He was still Sovereign and yet able (Daniel 3:17-18).

Courage

Jesus honored that boldness and met them in a furnace that had been heated seven times above what was standard (Daniel 3:19, 25). The testimony of those who threw them in announced God’s protection and His willingness to advocate for those who hold to their faith in difficult times.

We may not realize it, but we aren’t too different. Those men possessed a keen awareness of God’s readiness to fight for them, and we can experience that, too. The same spirit of courage that came upon them to do what was impossible and death-defying lives inside of us.

The Holy Spirit raised Jesus from the dead and He is resurrecting us all the time. Scripture conveys that we go from one place of glory to another (2 Corinthians 3:18). While it may not seem so, the Lord is constantly magnified when we endure hard trials as the soldiers He has made us to be (2 Timothy 2:3).

The Holy Spirit empowers us to do what we cannot on our own, not only to build and bless our lives with His Presence but also to testify to God’s manifested presence. Sometimes, we may be more aware of our weaknesses, but such experiences cause Jesus’ Strength to be perfected in us (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Confidence

Maybe it’s time we pivoted and took a second look. When we change position, we also shift perspective. While we are already seated in heavenly places in Christ, we may need to invite the Holy Spirit to show us where He sees us (Colossians 3:1). He will help us to notice and stand confidently in the present victory.

Though we may feel pressed on all sides and persecuted, we will not be destroyed through any of it (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). We need to remember and realize the tremendous resilience that is being forged through our hard times. He will contend with the enemy that threatens and rails against the living God who is alive in us (Psalm 35:1).

Next steps for spiritual development

Wherever you are in your spiritual development or the formation of spiritual goals, remember that God is with you. Just as Jesus stood with the Hebrew young men, the Holy Spirit stands up in you to accomplish the Father’s divine purpose. Undoubtedly, the trials you may be facing can seem daunting, yet the same God who has called you into it will grace you for it.

If you need support with your spiritual development and goals, reach out to a counselor here at Laguna Christian Counseling in California to make an appointment. The Lord has provided resources for you to remain victorious in all He has won on your behalf.