Face The HeatDedicated to Israel Rangel
Released: 3/17/1996
This song quickly assumed an uncompromising disposition. It's fitting, too, because the message from James 1:2-4, where the Scripture tells us to "consider it all joy when [we] encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing" (NASV). We are called to stand firm in the midst of difficulties so that we become more like our Lord! The clue is in the words.
The clue is found in the text - well, all over the text - the title, the chorus, the message. It's about "heat." If you're not familiar with Greek, it helps to learn that the word in James 1:2-4 is "pyrosmos", which means not just "trials" but "fiery trials" (we derive words with the root pyro- from the same source: pyromaniac, pyrotechnic, pyroclastic, ...). Heat, in quantum physical form, consists of energy packets known as photons, and these photons define the infrared (IR) portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. And, of course, these are Israel's initials.
Yes, this is stretching things a bit...
This song is featured on the recording of the Living Water 15-Year Reunion Concert available (exclusively!) from Choraegus ShareMusic for $10.00 per CD, plus $3.00 shipping and handling.
A trial is coming to test your faith,
It's a daunting challenge to meet,
So trust the Lord, lean on His strength and endure
the searing waves of heat.Chorus: Face the heat, the heat of the trial,
Face the heat - to Jesus be true,
Face the heat because you're God's child,
Endure the test the Lord presents to work perfection in you.Have joy in the trial that makes your life hard,
Let the test make you patient and wise,
And patience will work God's perfection in you
as you look toward the heavenly prize.Chorus Blessed are you when you endure temptation,
Trusting the Lord in your strife,
Testing is a path of preparation
to receive a crown of life!Chorus