The Refining Process

[Guest guest]

Some time ago, a few ladies met in a certain city to study the scriptures. While

reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable expression in

the third verse: " And He shall sit as a refiner and

purifier of silver (Mal. 3:3). "

 

One lady proposed to visit a silversmith and report to them on what he said

about the subject. She went accordingly, and without telling the object of her

errand begged the silversmith to tell her about the process of refining silver.

 

After he had fully described it to her, she asked, " But sir, do you sit while

the work of refining is going on? "

" Oh, yes, madam, " 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. "

The lady at once saw the beauty, and comfort too, of the expression, " He shall

sit as a refiner and purifier of silver. "

 

God 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 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, " When do you know the

process is complete? "

 

" Why, that is quite simple, " replied the silversmith. " When I can see my own

image in the silver, the refining process is finished. "