In every generation, something is revealed that seems to scorch the reputation of God’s people. Betrayals, lust, and greed are nothing new to Him, but they still surprise us. We are often unaware of our heart’s true condition.

These exposures of sin remind me of what I saw while hiking above our home: the black scars left behind by controlled, intentional burns. These planned burns are set by fire crews to remove brush, dry grass, and undergrowth that could fuel dangerous wildfires in summer. Their purpose is not destruction, but protection for our community.

God doesn’t ignite an uncontrolled wildfire that can destroy entire communities of faith. He does something specific. The purpose of His refining fire is to remove what harms us. His fire focuses on the sin, not the people.

I also noticed young, colorful flowers already springing up and spreading across the areas previously scorched by the controlled burns. In time, these natural burn marks will give way to His original design for the forest.

The same happens in the Spirit. His fire brings restoration, new growth, and maturity. Our hope is in God’s restorative grace. He will make all things new in His time.

It’s difficult, unsettling, and sorrowful when the stark, uncomfortable exposure of our sin is evident. When we see the burn marks, we need to remember the words of the One who restores His people: “I will restore you to health and heal your wounds” (Jeremiah 30:17).