HIS REFINING FIRE

When I first accepted Jesus as He knocked at my heart’s door,
I was told that I’d be happy and have life forevermore.
And since I was a Christian, I thought life would be a breeze,
As I lingered in his presence, and enjoyed my days of ease.

But soon my expectations fell in tatters round my feet,
As I struggled through more heartaches than I ever thought I’d meet.
And each day brought new disasters as I watched dear loved ones die,
While I found there were no answers to the troubling question "Why?"

Instead of ease and plenty, I had problems by the score;
And when I thought I’d solved one, there just seemed to be ten more.
But all the things I suffered simply drove me to my knees,
As Jesus wrapped me in His arms and listened to my pleas.

I felt His peace and comfort as I fed upon His Word,
And I longed to share his love and grace with those who’ve never heard.
I found He was remolding me in His refining fire,
To take away my willfulness, and every vain desire.

The more I nestled close to Him, and listened to His voice,
The more I learned to love Him and to make His will my choice.
So now my prayers are not for wealth, or treasures bright and new,
But just that I’ll be faithful till my work on earth is through.

Betty Jo Mings