Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable statement in the third verse: "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver" (Malachi 3:3). One lady decided to visit a silversmith, and report to the others on what he said about the subject. She went accordingly, and without telling the silversmith the reason for her visit, asked him to tell her about the process of refining silver.
After he had fully described it to her, she asked, "Sir, do you watch while the work of refining is going on?"
"Oh, yes ma'am," replied the silversmith. "I must sit and watch the furnace constantly, for, if the time necessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."
The lady at once saw the beauty and comfort of the statement, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."
God sees it as necessary to put His children into the furnace but His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for us. Our trials do not come at random, and He will not let us be tested beyond what we can endure.
Before she left, the lady asked one final question, "How do you know when the process is finished?"
"Oh, that's quite simple," replied the silversmith . . .When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is complete."
6 comments:
Oh, oh, oh ... that is so beautiful. And I know I've heard that before, but it's been a while & I had forgotten about it, and it means more to me now than it did when I first read it. Thanks for sharing that. I needed it. :)
Monica,
This is the first time I've heard this story ...WOW! Thanks for sharing it.
Wow---what a great picture, what an awesome thought about our God. Why would any of us want to belong to any one else?
Great post sister
Peace
Neva
Lisa,
I had heard this one before, too, but a little differently. I just love the message. It is funny how something can affect you at one time and life and you may read past it at other times.
NB,
Hello! I'm glad that you can comment now. I only found out recently that I had unintentionally blocked non-blogger accounts.
Neva,
Great point and I don't want to belong to anyone else. Again, loved your post today!
This was a great post. I love the idea of God being able to be seen in His product.
Kathy
Mon ... been a long time since I had read the story. I actually had forgotten some of it.
I've been a little slow getting around the blogger world this week. We've had 70 AIM students in Childress this week doing community work. They were such a blessing. I hated to see them go because they were so Christ-like, but I'm glad they left because I'm tired or painting the park! :)
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