June 25 -- "Purified by Fire and Water"

Today's Reading: Numbers 31:1-24

 

"Purified by Fire and Water"

In Numbers 31, we find the Israelites engaged in battle with the Midianites. After their victory, Moses instructs the people regarding the spoils of war. The Lord commands them to make the captured items fit for use through purification by fire and water. This process of purification symbolizes God's desire for His people to be cleansed and sanctified, both externally and internally.

As believers in Christ, we are called to be set apart, holy vessels for God's use. The process of purification described in Numbers 31 holds valuable lessons for us today. First, passing through the fire represents the refining work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Just as gold is purified by fire, God uses various trials and challenges to refine our character, burn away impurities, and strengthen our faith. It is in the midst of these fiery trials that we are refined and made more like Christ.

Secondly, passing through the water represents the cleansing power of God's Word. The Apostle Paul alludes to this in Ephesians 5:26, “...that He might sanctify her [the Church], having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word." The water of the Word washes away the defilement of sin and renews our minds. As we daily immerse ourselves in Scripture, meditate on its truths, and allow it to convict and guide us, we experience the purifying work of God's Spirit within us.

It is so important that we embrace the process of purification. It may be uncomfortable and challenging, but remember that God's desire is for us to be vessels fit for His use. When trials come, let us trust in His faithfulness and rely on His strength to refine us. And as we engage with His Word, let us be diligent in seeking its cleansing power, allowing it to shape our thoughts, actions, and attitudes.

May we continually surrender ourselves to the cleansing fire of the Holy Spirit and the purifying water of God's Word. "Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the Master of the house, ready for every good work." (2 Timothy 2:21) Let us persevere in the process, knowing that through it, we are being transformed into vessels of honor, ready for the Master’s service.