God, our silversmith

A story about how God shapes us...

Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the bible. While reading the 3rd chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable expression in the 3rd verse, "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifer of silver." One lady decided to visit a silversmith and report to the others on what he said about the subject.

She went according and without telling him the reason for her visit, begged the silversmith to tell her about the process of refining silver.

After he had fully described it to her, she asked, "Sir, must you sit and watch constantly 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 neccessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."

The lady at once saw the beauty and comfort of the expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." God sees it neccessary 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 complete?"

"That's quite simple," replied the silversmith. "When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is finished."

- Valerie