When God first appeared to Moses in the burning bush, which did not burn up, the Bible indicates that an angel appeared in the flames of fire to call Moses to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 3:2-4). God used “fire” to manifest Himself to Moses.
When God wanted to show Himself to His chosen people, the Israelites, He again used “fire,” as stated in Exodus 19:17-18:
“Then Moses brought the people from the camp to meet God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. Mount Sinai was wrapped in smoke, for the Lord descended upon it in fire.”
In the case of Elijah, he sought to prove that Yahweh is the true and living God, unlike Baal. He instructed the people to prepare sacrifices for God and Baal, and the true God would answer with fire (1 Kings 18). Here, Elijah also used “fire” according to God’s guidance.
In the New Testament, after the ascension of Jesus Christ, the disciples and some women were gathered in prayer, waiting for the Holy Spirit. Tongues of fire appeared on them, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4).
Why did God use “fire” when meeting His people at Mount Sinai? He could have used rain, the sun, clouds, or other natural phenomena. Here are some reasons why fire was specifically chosen:
1. *Fire Represents the Holiness of God*: Fire cannot accept impurities; hence, it is used to purify gold and other metals.
2. *Fire Signifies God’s Presence and Power*: In the presence of God, one perceives His holiness and must obey His laws.
3. *God’s Presence is Like a Burning Sun*: Approaching it without the covering of Jesus Christ’s blood can lead to destruction. His sacrifice on the cross allows us access to God’s presence, which is so holy that we cannot approach it without being purified.
In the Old Testament, if people made mistakes or sinned and tried to approach God’s holiness, they would die. However, after the sacrifice of Jesus, this no longer happens.
I have seen worshippers glorifying God while at the same time engaging in drinking alcohol and smoking in the pulpit without consequence. Has God’s standard changed? No, it has not. The same fire we use to cook dinner can also destroy thousands; the power of God is the same.
Today, Christians may not face immediate consequences for their actions, but they face the repercussions. God is not burning us but giving us another chance to change our lives.
Fire has both advantages and disadvantages. Some people use God’s fire or power to heal the sick, while others exploit this gift for monetary gain. But ultimately, they will be held accountable.
God’s fire symbolizes holiness, and being in the presence of the Lord can consume all the impurities the devil tries to introduce into your family. As stated in Mathew 3:11, Jesus gives baptism with the Holy Spirit and fire, which removes soul corruption.
“The same power that God puts in fire is also reflected in our words”; this is why James 3:6 states, “And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members that it defiles the whole body.”
The Bible mentions that the tongue is a small member but boasts great things.” If God’s fire can consume all evil in your life, your words can have the same effect if used appropriately.”
I know a parent who was always worried about her son’s academic performance, despite investing a lot of money into his education without seeing improvement. I discovered that she often referred to him as “duffer” and “dumb.” With such negative words, how could he possibly excel?
Whatever you wish to see in your future, start speaking it into existence with positive affirmations. For example:
– “My son is going to be the best student in Jesus’ name.”
– “I am going to shine in my college in Jesus’ name.”
– “God is going to provide me with the perfect match for marriage.”
– “He is giving me a fantastic job with short hours and a high salary so that I can spend more time in prayer.”
“This is how you can use your tongue fruitfully, as it has the power to build you up or tear you down.”
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