Brenda Adrine Forever Blue

Forged by Trials As I think about the word “forged,” I picture the making of a sword, not just any sword, but a Japanese blade that is stronger than its Western counterparts. The Japanese process is known as folding. In this method, they forge the metal, then weld it together, fold it, and weld it again. The swords are repeatedly heated, hammered, and folded, which improves strength, removes impurities, and enhances toughness. The folding process can occur up to 16 times, front to back and side to side, and typically takes days or even weeks to complete. This is no different from the process God uses to forge us into the men and women He desires us to be. This folding process is in 1 Peter 4:12: “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you.” These fiery trials and temptations are the process God uses to strengthen and purify us. Each trial folds into our soul and spirit, toughening us to serve Him and glorify Him. The Apostle James also sees this folding process as revealing the godly characteristics God instills in our lives as He forges us through fiery trials. “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4). Then He gives us the end result of enduring these trials. “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)

Praying in the Spirit “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” (Ephesians 6:18b) The church has debated praying in the Spirit, but let me give you an all-inclusive answer. It’s prayer directed and inspired by the Holy Spirit. In Romans 8:26, the Apostle Paul said, “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings that cannot be uttered.” Praying in the Spirit is one of the two offensive weapons God gives us in our spiritual armor. “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” (Ephesians 6:18a) The first offensive weapon is the “Sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:17b) For me, praying in the Spirit is our long-range artillery. It pounds the enemy’s position and weakens his attacks because the Holy Spirit knows exactly where to aim for maximum damage. The Apostle Paul’s advice is then to pray always with all the prayer we can muster, and make sure it’s fueled and directed by the Holy Spirit.