A Refining Purpose

Quite often we misunderstand God and the purpose behind all the things we experience in life. I read the story recently of a few ladies who were meeting to study the Bible. While reading in Malachi they came across a rather remarkable verse, "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Taken by this statement one of the ladies proposed to visit a silversmith and report back to them what he had to say about this subject. She went accordingly and without sharing the reason for her errand asked the smith to tell her about the process of refining silver. After he had fully described it to her, she asked, "But sir, do you sit while the work of refining is going on?" "Oh yes, madam" replied the silversmith. "I must sit with my eye steadily fixed on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining be exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured." The lady at once saw the beauty and comfort of the expression, "And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." God sometimes sees it needful to allow His children to go through the refiners fire. His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying and His wisdom and love are both engaged to provide the best for us. Our trials do not come at random and He will not allow us to be tested beyond what we can endure. Before the lady left she asked one final question, "When do you know the process is complete?" "Why, that is quite simple," replied the silversmith. "When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is finished." Although difficult at times we must always remember refining has a purpose. God enjoys seeing himself, especially when that reflection is coming from you and me.