Session 13

The refining process isn’t easy, but it’s always for our good

From Chasing Purpose: A 27-Day Devotional

You’ve probably heard the saying, “God loves you just the way you are, but He loves you too much to let you stay that way.”

Although it’s a little cliche, this quote holds some truth.

God didn’t create us to be static characters. He didn’t intend for us to get saved then remain stagnant for the rest of our lives. He wants us to constantly grow, change, and morph into a reflection of Him.

When extracted from the earth, silver is intertwined with other minerals and trapped within various ores. It requires purification to be made unblemished and untarnished. Purifying silver is a process requiring intentional attention and concentration. The refiner must place the silver ore in the hottest part of the flame and keep an eye on it to know exactly when it’s ready.

Being a Christian doesn’t guarantee that we escape the “fires” of life. We will experience trials and hard times. Yet Malachi 3:3 says, “will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” This should be a comfort to us. God will never leave us nor forsake us, and His eye is always on us. We will never walk through the fire alone, and God can work all things together for His glory and our good.

When the right time comes, we will leave the fire more refined, less blemished, and with a brilliant shine, reflecting even more of His image. Paul tells us to find confidence in this, “that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Reflect:

• What’s the latest “fire” you’ve walked through? How did you experience God’s love during the trial?
  
• Is there anyone you know who would benefit from an encouraging text or scripture? Take a minute to thank God for walking with you through the valleys of life, then send a quick word of encouragement to a friend.