Let God Turn Up the Heat

What happens when God turns up the heat? Do we try to escape or do we trust that He will give us what we need to endure—allowing His refining fire to purify us like gold? Let’s talk about how waiting for an answer to prayer can be an intense process, and how the way we handle it may shape our praise before, during, and after our breakthrough. We’ll end with a pep talk on how living in love with God should be our greatest joy. Whether or not we are in the End Times, Jesus calls us to be on guard and ready for His return at any moment. Are we truly living for Him?

Listen to You Are You Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts or read the transcript below.

Hi friends,

If we were meeting in person, I’d be running up to you for a huge hug—because there’s nothing like connecting with friends who love God. Also, I’m in that kind of mood today.

I just came out of a cold. About two weeks ago, we had an intense winter storm here in Toronto, and temperatures dropped to nearly minus 30 degrees Celsius. Since I mostly work from home, this would have been a great time to hibernate, but I had plans to go into the office to film an Easter video. I wasn’t outside for long—maybe 10 minutes—but shortly after, I caught a cold. Many of my colleagues have been sick too. Most of my symptoms have cleared up, but my nose is still a little stuffy.

TMI? Maybe! But just setting the scene for my current headspace.

As I’ve been recovering, I’ve had a lot of downtime—sleeping, healing—and it’s coincided with some blessings from God that I’ve been hoping and praying for over a long time.

Sometimes, I like to respond to situations as they come but also observe what’s happening at the same time. For example, as one of my prayers was being answered, I was going through the process of having it officially confirmed (and I could list at least a dozen ways I believe God confirmed it was the right door). At the same time, a few other doors opened. I believed they were opening for a reason but sensed I wasn’t meant to walk through them. Then I got sick—right after completing the steps for the right door. I wasn’t even well enough to consider the other doors. Do you know what I mean?

It’s amazing to see God’s hand in our stories. He’s already written them, and it’s a blessing when we get to read the page—especially when it’s a page we’ve been waiting and praying for.

Praising God Before, During, and After the Breakthrough

Let’s talk about praising God in every season. As I’ve been rejoicing and celebrating, I’ve also been reminded of the importance of staying hungry for God in all circumstances.

Before the Breakthrough

Sometimes, praising God before the breakthrough feels natural because we know we need Him. Other times, it’s hard—especially if we’ve been praying and waiting for a long time.

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. (Proverbs 13:12)

We long for fulfillment, and God understands that delayed hope can be painful. But when we surrender to His process, our hearts are refined.

During my recent waiting season, I noticed the fruits of the Holy Spirit growing in my life as I intentionally put to death sinful desires and replaced them with holy ones. For example, exchanging pride for patience. I don’t think this is something we can force, but when we reject prideful thoughts, approach God with a humble heart, and trust His ways and timing, we learn to be patient and we grow. The goal isn’t just to get an answer and become prideful again—it’s to humbly wait on God in all situations. I hope this becomes a permanent part of how I live and act. I pray this fruit ripens more and more in my life—and in yours.

During and After the Breakthrough

Sometimes, when God answers our prayers, we can’t believe it. We’re excited, pressing into Him while waiting for confirmation… and then—woohoo! God did it! How do we celebrate? Do we immediately turn to worldly pleasures—fancy dinners, vacations, shopping sprees? Or do we pause to worship and thank God?

As I went through my process, I felt God remind me to celebrate. That it was time to rejoice. And you know what one of my favourite ways to celebrate is? Refreshing my wardrobe and indulging in smart fashion writing. And I did. I enjoyed it! But it also reminded me that nothing compares to the joy of time with God. That if I let myself spend too much time on my wardrobe refresh, I'd feel the ache of not spending enough time with God.

A reminder for me—and maybe for you—that celebrating with good things is a blessing, but nothing will ever satisfy like the Lord. May we remember to give thanks to Him and keep Him first, even in our excitement and as we enjoy his blessings.

Jesus healed ten men with leprosy, but only one returned to give thanks (Luke 17:11-18). 

May we be like the one who threw himself at Jesus’ feet in gratitude once his prayer was answered. Our blessings come not because we are worthy but because of His love and grace.

Earlier today, I had brunch with a dear friend—one of my mentors from a Christian entrepreneurship retreat. Over the last two years, we’ve clicked, and she continually inspires me with her desire to seek and obey God’s will. She recently received a big career opportunity but is weighing whether it aligns with what God is calling her to. A great reminder that success isn’t about chasing the highest-paying or most prestigious job—it’s about following God’s will. And when we do, He often takes us higher than we ever imagined. Sometimes, “higher” also looks different than we originally thought.

My recent breakthrough and answered prayer (thank you, Lord!) has been nearly two years in the making. It started with someone testifying, which sparked something in me. I thought, "This clearly matters to God—why haven’t I considered it before?" And as I responded to God’s revelation, I took steps of obedience. Sometimes I pulled back in fear, but He kept leading me forward. Now, I feel He has made it clear which path to take—and I know walking this road will require surrendering my whole life to Him. And because of that, I’m excited! I'll have much growing to do but grateful and trusting that his Spirit will be guiding me.

Living for God in All Seasons

Friend, this podcast began when I was in Hong Kong, at the height of my Michelin-starred media days. If you had told me then that God would lead me in this direction, I don’t know if I would have believed I had the faith or courage to obey. To leave all I knew? But God knows me. He knows what He made me for. And He knows the best way to shape me into who He wants me to be.

And He knows you, too. Do you believe that He truly has the very best for you? Are you willing to leave everything behind if He calls you to? It might seem scary, but in these unpredictable times, may we remember that the only sure thing is God. And we want to be on His side.

Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Matthew 24:12-13)

Jesus warns that before His return, darkness will increase. But He also says:

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

Let’s encourage one another to put God first daily. I can’t wait to see how we grow into His likeness. Let’s do it out of love for Him—knowing the world needs His love. As we obey, He will give us more opportunities. Lord, give us faith, wisdom, and courage to take them. Perfect love casts out fear. May His love shine through us more and more.

Until next time, friends. Keep enjoying time with the Lord. Amen.