Job 13:15

Before my window is a beautiful branch of a tree now in full spring dress.

Only a few weeks ago that same branch was loaded with ice—it seemed as if it must break! I remember one hour: it seemed it could not keep up. I expected to see it give way, but it did not break. Today it is beautiful!

I will not doubt, though all my ships at sea Come drifting home with broken masts and sails; I will believe the Hand that never fails, From seeming evil works to good for me.

And though I weep because those sails are tattered, Still will I cry, while my best hopes lie shattered: “I trust in Thee.”

O believer , what a glorious assur ance this verse is! What confi dence I have because “the way that I take”—this way of trials and tears, however winding, hidden, or tangled—“He knows”! When the “furnace [is] heated seven times hotter than usual” (Daniel 3:19), I can know He still lights my way. There is an almighty Guide who knows and directs my steps, whether they lead to the bitter water at the well of Marah or to the joy and refreshment of the oasis at Elim (Exodus 15:23, 27).

The way is dark to the Egyptian s yet has its own pillar of cloud and fire for God’ s Israel. The furnace may be hot, but not only can I trust the hand that lights the fire, I can also have the assurance the fire will not consume but only refine. And when the refining process is complete, not a moment too soon or too late, “I will come forth as gold” (Job 23:10).