Refined Like Silver

For you, O God, have tested us;
you have tried us as silver is tried.

Psalm 66:10 ESV

Welcome to 2019!

Today, everyone looks ahead at the new year with hope, thinking of all the possibilities.

It’s a funny thing really. Nothing has actually changed, but every year we use this time to make improvements in our lives.

We’re going to workout more, eat healthier, get closer to God. Things will be different now!

But when changes actually start to be made, we realize that change isn’t comfortable. Being a “better me” is actually quite difficult.

Getting into shape requires that we actually make time for the gym often.

Eating healthier means that we have to be intentional with the way that we eat, so no more fast food.

And getting closer to God? Now we will have to get up a full half hour earlier than before!

The goals are worthwhile, but the process isn’t so easy. Turning ourselves into someone pure and useful is difficult work!

In order to yield pure silver or gold, ore has to be smelted in a fiery furnace over and over, up to seven times!

Each time the ore is heated, any impurities in the metal start to disappear. This process leaves behind pure, precious metals without defect.

The process is effective, but uncomfortable. But no matter how uncomfortable, it’s incredibly worthwhile because the precious metal can now be used for a multitude of things.

As we enter into this new year, let us not shy away from trial. From growth. From refining.

It will be uncomfortable and will require great resiliency on our part, but when we’re refined and made pure, as precious metals without defect, the Lord can use us for anything.

Will you be obedient to let the Lord refine you this year?