Proverbs 17:3: The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the hearts.
Insight
To get pure silver, the mined ore must be put into the fining pot and heated until it melts so that the dross can be removed and the pure metal remain. The same thing applies to gold; it is put in the furnace, and the dross is drawn off. And the Lord puts His servants into the fire so that He can develop something in them. He tries our hearts in order to strengthen us. He wants to produce better sons and daughters for His use. We are more precious to God than gold or silver. Therefore, we should not be discouraged when we are tested.1 1
Application
Peter explains the purposes of trials in 1 Peter 1:6–7 “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”
Are you living through some difficult trials right now? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Take courage with a renewed biblical perspective. God is making gold. He may be using this situation to strengthen your faith. Even to purify your heart. Remember, God is for you. You are more valuable to Him than all the gold in the world. He shed His blood for you. He will take you through this trial. Receive His abundant grace now.
Motivation
“Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; Try my mind and my heart.” Psalm 26:2
He allows the heat, so I can know His victory, not defeat. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, please teach me to trust You and not my feelings.
1. Bridges, C. (2001). Proverbs. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
