Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

When my husband saw that I was taking my faith to a level that seemed ‘cult-like’ to him, he was concerned. I can understand him. I went from having no faith and interest in my religion to waking up early to pray, reading the bible daily and seeking regular Christian fellowship. So when he learned that the self-empowered motivational speaker, Tony Robbins was coming to our area he pressured me to attend the conference. I don’t know his exact reasons but perhaps he wanted me to get into a more self-reliant belief.I was a newly re-committed follower of Jesus Christ, and I was very concerned. My faith felt so weak and wobbly – so how can I attend such a conference? However when I prayed and asked many prayer friends to pray for me, I received great peace to attend this weekend conference. So with much prayer and support, I went by faith and led in peace.

The first night of the conference was full of high energy with a dynamic, charismatic Tony Robbins pumping us up! He was a lot of fun. The biggest anticipation of the night was the famous walk through the coals of fire. I was terrified of getting burned and the consequences after. My kids were young and I got many responsibilities. I did not want to do this but I knew I had to. My husband paid big bucks for my ticket and hotel. I listened intently at Tony Robbins’ instructions. No doubts or fears were allowed! (FYI – I signed a waiver too.) Somehow even if I walked through the burning coals with much fear and doubt, I didn’t get burned. Thank you Jesus! Brave and fearless thousands walked that night without getting burnt. I still don’t understand this phenomenon.

Greater amazement for me is I came back home not confused or weakened in my faith, but rather more focused and strengthened in my faith and resolve to follow Christ. (Hmm…I see a spiritual formula here. Obedience + Trust = Faith.)

Little did I know that this physical ceremony of walking through the fire will soon become a spiritual one as well. Soon after, Jesus led me straight into the fire. His fire cleansed me, molded me, and shaped me into who I am today. I believe I reflect Christ more than ever.

Why am I led to tell you this story? Because I see too many of God’s children who don’t make it through the other side of the fire. Our Father God is trying to teach us and to build us anew in our flawed characters and mindsets so that we can be better and do great works for His glory. I see too many not accepting the lessons of a loving Abba Father who only wants us to mature so that we can receive our great inheritance in Christ Jesus. Instead they fall into self-pity or poor attitudes which lead them to the lies of the enemy. That’s a bad, terrible place to go.

What is on the other side after the fire walk? From my personal experience, there’s greater faith, hope and love. My heart values have changed tremendously too. I can honestly say my heart desires what Jesus desires, more and more everyday. Additionally, God has placed me in leading and serving opportunities at my kids’ school, church and family. I accept the extra responsibilities and do them as best as I can humbly and honorably, knowing that I represent Christ Jesus.

What does my husband think of all these changes in me? He still doesn’t like the intensity of my faith or care to understand the gospel. But I believe he likes the newer me and that’s why he’s tolerant of my faith. And by faith, I can tell you that one day my husband will completely turn around and believe in Jesus Christ too. I’ll probably be the one trying to catch up to his faith and zeal for Christ! I believe he will do great and mighty things for the kingdom of God.

Until then, I’m enjoying my life and learning on the job how to be a better leader, communicator, friend and most importantly, wife and mother. I’m also enjoying the many experiences, opportunities and people God is bringing my way to encourage, to serve, and to love. Life is fun and full in Jesus Christ…especially after the fire walk. Be encouraged friends, there is an end to the fire walk. Have faith and keep moving forward! I’ll be praying for you. Please pray for me too. God bless you! – From the heart with love.

Job 23:10 (AMP)
When He has tried me, I will come forth as [refined] gold [pure and luminous].

Galatians 4:1Living Bible (TLB)
4 But remember this, that if a father dies and leaves great wealth for his little son, that child is not much better off than a slave until he grows up, even though he actually owns everything his father had.

Here are more bible verses to reflect on regarding Christian maturity:

http://www.openbible.info/topics/christian_maturity

12/22/17 – earlier this year a good, mature friend ran into a verse in Kings about a corrupt king who made his sons walk through the fire. She suggested that I denounce this fire walk I did. So I did privately in my car shouting out loud. Then during one prayer meeting I denounced it again before few trustworthy ladies. It felt right to do this with witnesses.