Take comfort, fellow believer, in knowing this: God says, "I've chosen you in the furnace of affliction." These words gently calm the fire's fury. They are like armor that the heat can't touch. Let affliction come. God has chosen me. Poverty may enter, but God is already here and He's chosen me.

Sickness may intrude, but I have a balm ready. God has chosen me. Whatever happens in this world of tears, I know He has chosen me. If you need more comfort, remember you have the Son of Man with you in your struggles. In your silent room, there is One beside you whom you love, though you haven't seen.

Often, without you noticing, He makes your bed and smooths your pillow in your illness. You're in poverty, but in your very home, the Lord of life and glory visits you. He loves to come into these lonely places to be with you. Your Friend remains close.

You may not see Him, but you can feel His gentle touch. Can you hear His voice? Even in the valley of the shadow of death, He says, "Fear not, I'm with you; don't be dismayed, for I'm your God." Remember Caesar's words, "Fear not, you carry Caesar and all his fortune." Fear not, Christian. Jesus is with you.

In all your trials, His presence is your comfort and safety. He will never abandon the one He has chosen. "Fear not, for I'm with you," is His promise in the furnace of affliction. Will you not hold fast to Christ and say, "Through floods and flames, if Jesus leads, I'll follow where He goes"?