“The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the heart.”

Ouch! That’s right, there is no gentle way to put this. There is also no gentle way for this to happen. I don’t have space here, and you most likely don’t have much interest in how a crucible (if you know what that is) or a furnace interacts with silver and gold in the purifying process. Suffice it to say, no piece of silver or gold ever left the process saying, “Now that was fun.” God’s testing of our hearts can, and often does, involve intense pain and pressure. It is easy, at those times, to confuse His refining process with punishment. Although the consequences of sin or poor choices in our lives can be reflected in pain, it is important to remember that all of God’s activity in our story is motivated by love and His intense desire and total commitment to see us conformed to His Son’s image. Though I am personally a long way from that end result, I am more convinced than ever that there is nothing I desire more than that. You do, too. You may not realize it yet, but when looking at the totality— as best we can—of time, space, and eternity, there is nothing that matters more or will bring greater satisfaction and joy. Today, accept the refining and grow. #BeTheEdge

“He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the Lord will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness,” Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬ NIV‬‬