Forged By God As I am preparing to go to this year’s men’s camp entitled “Forge,” my mind envisioned a forge and the forging of a sword, but not just any sword, a Japanese blade, which is stronger than any of its western counterparts. The process is known as folding. It is where the metals are forged, then welded together, folded, and welded again. The swords are repeatedly heated, hammered, and folded, which improves the sword’s strength, removes impurities, and enhances its toughness. The folding process can occur up to 16 times, from front to back and from side to side, and typically takes days or even weeks to complete. In Japan it is considered a sacred art. This is no different than the process used by God as He forges us into the men and women He desires and means for us to be. This folding process is seen in the Apostle Peter’s first letter to the church. He said, “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you” (1 Peter 4:12). These multiple fiery trials are the process God uses to strengthen and purify us. Each trial is folded into our soul and spirit to toughen us up to be used in His service and for His glory. The Apostle James further sees this folding process when he tells us those godly characteristics God folds into our lives as He forges us through these 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). And so let the Lord continue to forge you into that man or women He desires for you to be allowing Him to fold into you these godly characteristics through the various fiery trials that come your way.
Posted on: Fri, 25 Oct 2013 14:40:46 +0000
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