Inspirational Spiritual Growth Article for
The Christian Woman
The Master Silversmith
Purifying Fire ~ His Reflection
From my journal (author unknown): Some time ago, a few ladies met in a certain city to read the scriptures and make them the subject of conversation. While reading Malachi 3:3, they came upon a remarkable expression:
"And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."
One lady's opinion was that it was intended to convey the view of the pure, sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ. Then she proposed to visit a silversmith so that she could report to them what he said on the subject. She went there accordingly and, without telling the object of her errand, begged to know the process of refining silver, which he fully described to her. "But, sir, "she said, "Do you sit while the work of refining is going on?" "Oh, yes, ma'am," 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 instead of just purging out the imperfections." The lady at once saw the beauty—and comfort too—of the expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Christ sees it needful to put His children into a furnace; His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for them. Their trials do not come at random. As the lady was leaving the shop, she stopped to ask the silversmith, "How do you know when the process is complete?" And the silversmith replied, "When I see my own image reflected in the silver." Are you being refined right now?Praise the Lord that
He will purge the imperfections
until His image is reflected in your life. Help us to trust You, Lord,
as you purify our lives.
He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.
~Malachi 3:3
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