If any man builds on this foundation using gold, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. 1 Corinthians 3:12-13
Fire is one of the toughest tests on earth. How could anything survive it? Can life continue after it has done its work?
Consider a mighty forest fire. When the flames have stopped and the ground has grown cool again, it seems nothing could have lived through it. From all appearances, the land is dead. How could it ever be the same? Charred trees and ash cover the landscape leaving it barren and seemingly lifeless. But as time passes, new life begins. With enough time, a new forest will grow, and there are few signs of the destruction that was so apparent.
Consider a man. If his home is completely destroyed by fire, does he rebuild? Does he throw up his hands and walk away? Does he see this as God's plan, calling him to leave and rebuild elsewhere?
Consider a friendship. How does it fair the fires of sin, deception, and betrayal? Will trust ever be seen again? Can the closest of friends survive the flames? Or will they live the remainder of life as bitter enemies?
Lord, I have been burned by Your holy fire. I am saddened by what has been lost. From all appearances, all hope seems to be gone. In You, there is life. Help me to see new life again.