Faith Endures the Fire

This month, we’re exploring the theme of fire. In 1 Corinthians 3:13-15, Paul explains that on the Day of Judgment, our works will be tested by fire. This fire will reveal the quality, character and true value of each person’s efforts. If our work is built on the solid foundation of Christ, it will endure and we will receive a reward. But if it’s burned up, while we may still be saved, we won’t receive a reward. I remember a pastor humorously explaining verse 15, saying, “You’ll still be saved, but imagine all your work going up in flames—even your hair burning off, leaving you bald!” He was joking, of course, about ending up bald in heaven!

1 Corinthians 3:13-15

Each one’s work will be clearly shown [for what it is]; for the day [of judgment] will disclose it, because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality and character and worth of each person’s work. If any person’s work which he has built [on this foundation, that is, any outcome of his effort] remains [and survives this test], he will receive a reward. But if any person’s work is burned up [by the test], he will suffer the loss [of his reward]; yet he himself will be saved, but only as [one who has barely escaped] through fire.                 

It really makes me wonder—will my work stand the test of fire? I certainly hope it does! I’d hate to see all my hard work burn up, and I’d really prefer not to lose all my hair when I get to heaven! I started to wonder—why must our work be tested by fire? And how can I make sure that all my hard work doesn’t go up in flames? Then, I remembered a Chinese saying related to fire: “True gold fears no fire.” This reminds me that only what is truly genuine and pure can withstand the flames.

I recently read Pastor Shanae’s blog, “Flame of God,” where she uses the example from Daniel 3. In this chapter, Daniel’s friends are thrown into a fiery furnace, plotted against by wicked men who used their faith in God as a trap. These men knew Daniel and his friends were devoted to God and would never worship the king as a god. Thinking they’d crafted the perfect plan to destroy them, they had no idea that God would protect Daniel’s friends, shielding them from the flames. This fire tested the quality, character and depth of their faithfulness—and they emerged unharmed. In contrast, the same fire consumed those who had plotted against them. Inspired by this story, I began studying Daniel’s character more closely, reflecting on how he built such a solid foundation on God.

1. Daniel Resolved Not to Defile Himself                                                                       Daniel 1:8

But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile (taint, dishonor) himself with the king’s finest food or with the wine which the king drank; so he asked the commander of the officials that he might [be excused so that he would] not defile himself.

Daniel’s reason was likely that the food and wine had been offered to idols before being served at the king’s table. Desiring to honor God in every aspect of his life, including what he ate and drank, Daniel chose instead to have only water and vegetables.

In our own lives, what have we resolved to avoid so that we too remain undefiled? Perhaps we choose not to join conversations filled with gossip or crude jokes, or we steer clear of situations that might compromise our values, like dishonest business practices or impulsive decisions swayed by peer pressure. These choices, though challenging at times, show a commitment to a life set apart—a life rooted in integrity and devoted to God-honoring principles.

2. Daniel Prays to God Three Times a Day                                                                    Daniel 6:10

Now when Daniel knew that the document was signed, he went into his house (now in his roof chamber his windows were open toward Jerusalem); he continued to get down on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks before his God, as he had been doing previously.

In this passage, we read that "Daniel always prayed to God three times every day; he would kneel down to pray and praise God." This daily devotion was the foundation of his faith. May we, like Daniel, commit to praying diligently, understanding that prayer is the key to building a strong and lasting relationship with God.

3. Daniel Relies on God and Handles Difficulties with Wisdom                                 Daniel 2:17-18

Then Daniel returned to his house and discussed the matter with Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, in order that they might seek compassion from the God of heaven regarding this secret, so that Daniel and his companions would not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.

When faced with a crisis, Daniel demonstrated wisdom and reliance on God. We see that Daniel “returned to his house and discussed the matter with Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, so that they might seek compassion from the God of heaven regarding this secret.” The situation was dire—the king had ordered the execution of all the wise men in Babylon because no one could interpret his dream. But rather than succumbing to fear, Daniel requested more time to seek God’s guidance and interpret the dream for the king. Not only did he interpret the dream, but he also advocated for mercy, sparing many lives.

When we face injustice or difficult situations, may we, like Daniel, respond with wisdom and courage. Let us discuss the matter with trusted people and, most importantly, seek God’s guidance for solutions.

4. Daniel Is Faithful, Diligent, and Honest                                                                   Daniel 6:4

Then the [other two] commissioners and the satraps began trying to find a reason to bring a complaint against Daniel concerning the [administration of the] kingdom; but they could find no reason for an accusation or evidence of corruption, because he was faithful [a man of high moral character and personal integrity], and no negligence or corruption [of any kind] was found in him. 

Daniel’s dedication and diligence were clear through his impeccable reputation. His commitment to his responsibilities and unwavering integrity set him apart as a trustworthy individual.

May we strive to embody these same qualities in our own lives, reflecting faithfulness and honesty in our duties—whether serving at church, at work, or in any area of responsibility.

Throughout his life, Daniel served as an advisor to kings, a government administrator, and a prophet of God, working under five different rulers. While it might seem glamorous to work in such high-ranking environments, serving royalty, enjoying privileges and receiving high honors, it was equally like walking through fire and facing wild beasts. Daniel constantly faced intense pressure from both the rulers and those who envied him. Yet his deep reliance on God sustained him through every trial.

Just as fire doesn’t destroy gold but instead refines and shapes it, may our faith be like gold—tested, shaped, and molded by God. When the day of judgment comes, may our works stand the test of fire, proving to be lasting and worthy of reward.

This Week's Action Steps:            

Engage in an activity involving fire! For example, try a glass-blowing class: did you know that glass is created from raw materials like sand, which are melted at high temperatures to form a new material? Or, consider something simpler like cooking or barbecuing—notice how heat transforms ingredients, making them delicious and edible.

As you do these activities, take time to reflect on how God may use the circumstances around you to shape and mold you. Like glass refined by fire or food perfected by heat, may your life be crafted into a vessel for God’s purposes. And when you go through “fiery” trials, may they not consume you but instead produce a pleasing aroma—one that brings delight to God and blesses others.

Let’s Pray Together:

Dear Lord, thank You for the opportunity to study Your Word. Help us to always remember that, rather than fear Your fire, we should be grateful for it. Your fire cleanses, transforms and burns away what is harmful to us, leaving only what is pleasing to You. May our faith and our work be like gold, able to withstand the test of fire. We thank You and pray all this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.