Forged By God

As I think about the word, “forged,” my mind envisions a forge and the making of a sword, but not just any sword, a Japanese blade, which is stronger than any of its western counterparts.

The process the Japanese use is known as folding. It’s where the metals are forged, then welded together, folded, and welded again. The swords are repeatedly heated, hammered, and folded, improving the sword’s strength, removing impurities, and enhancing its toughness.

The folding process can occur up to 16 times, from front to back and from side to side, and typically takes days or even weeks to complete. In Japan it’s considered a sacred art.

This is no different than the process used by God forging us into the men and women He desires us to be.

As the Potter the Lord molds and folds us, the clay, into that which will make us into a vessel of honor, Jeremiah 18:4.

This folding process is seen in the Apostle Peter’s first letter to the church.

“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you.” (1 Peter 4:12 NKJV)

These fiery trials are the process God uses to strengthen and purify us. Each trial is folded into our soul and spirit to toughen us to be used in His service and for His glory.

The Apostle James further sees this folding process telling us of those godly characteristics God folds into our lives as He forges us through fiery trials.

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4 NKJV).

Let the Lord continue to forge you into that man or women He desires you to be, allowing Him to fold into you these godly characteristics through the various fiery trials that come.