Refined by Fire: Strengthening Your Faith in Testing.

**Key Verse**: *“In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”* — 1 Peter 1:6-7 (ESV)

**Main Point**: Trials and hardships are not signs of abandonment by God but opportunities for growth and spiritual refining. Just as gold is purified by fire, our faith is strengthened and proven through life’s tests. God uses these challenges to deepen our trust in Him and prepare us for greater works in His Kingdom.

**Application**: Embrace trials not as punishment, but as a process to strengthen your reliance on God. In times of struggle, remember that His presence is closest when we are being refined. Let your response to these tests be faith, prayer, and unwavering hope, trusting that He is shaping you into the image of Christ.

**Prayer**: *Lord, in times of testing, help me to see Your refining hand at work. Grant me the strength to endure and the faith to trust that every trial is preparing me for Your purpose. May my life bring You glory as my faith is made strong in You. Amen.*