by Danielle N. Hall

3/21/2017

(Originally written on 3/14 for My Sister’s Corner)

I remember learning of a lady by the name of Edith Childs about 10 years ago. If you recall during the campaign of former President Barack Obama, there was this catchy chant: “Fired up! Ready to go!”. Apparently Childs, a councilor in Greenwood, SC, was responsible for getting this chant going. Since it’s popular debut in 2008, I must say that I find myself saying it often when I’m on assignment or on a mission. The truth is, I’m passionate about serving and I can’t help but to be fired up and ready to go! There are, however, times when being motivated is challenging. 

When life happens, it can sometimes be overwhelming and draining. During these times I’m reminded of the account in Daniel Chapter 3…when Shadrach, Meschach, and Abednego are cast into the fiery furnace which was punishment for those who failed to compromise and bow down to the decree of King Nebuchadnezzar. In the case of these 3 fellows, they weren’t just thrown into the furnace: they were first bound and the furnace was heated seven times hotter than usual. Yet, they remained steadfast. While in the fire, two things were discovered: they weren’t alone and they weren’t consumed.

We learn from this passage that when we purpose in our hearts to honor God because we are passionate about His love and His will for us, though He will allow us to be tested, He doesn’t desire for us to be consumed. They say “He’ll turn your test into a testimony.” I can say I’ve had to endure many tests and have had to do so all the more since I’ve given my life to the Lord. From dealing with sexual abuse earlier in life to trying to balance between home, work, ministry, and self: there have been maaaaaany tests. From them I have a testimony and that is: “I’m fired up and ready to go!”. Not only do I have a testimony, I’ve got a song. “Through the fire, to the limit…Through the fire, through whatever!”. 

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test you [that is, to test the quality of your faith], as though something strange or unusual were happening to you. But insofar as you are sharing Christ’s sufferings, keep on rejoicing, so that when His glory filled with His radiance and splendor is revealed, you may rejoice with great joy.” -1 Peter 4:12-13 (AMP)

Christ’s purpose fueled His passion. How could one be so passionate…even to the point of death? When you understand your purpose, you’re willing to go through whatever, come what may, to fulfill it. In John 4:34 (AMP), Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to completely finish His work.” He consumed purpose so that nothing else would consume Him. That same mind that Christ has is the one we’re encouraged to also have in us. When we adopt a Christlike mindset and are as steadfast as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego we can also go through the fire and not be consumed. 

For a final thought I’d like to leave you with these tips for keeping the fire burning…even while going through the fire:

1) Pause to celebrate the small victories. 

2) Renew your mind daily.

3) Surround yourself with firestarters.

4) Feast on His Word, so you can discover and absorb your purpose.

These helpful hints can help us go “through the fire, to the limit…through the fire, through whatever!”.