The fastest growth I have experienced in my Christian walk were always during "low" periods in my life. Like when I was waiting on God for a husband. That what when I learnt about God, learnt about His values, learnt that the best way for me to learn the bible is through study, and generally learnt about the value of mixing with the "brethren". When I was waiting on God for the fruit of the womb, that was when I learnt how to pray, I improved my worship style, and I learnt the importance of making out time for God. Now when I see someone going through a challenge and the person has chosen to walk with God, I know there is no way that person will not come out changed and a much better person. I know what the refiner can do...
A refiner is a specially skilled person who
removes impurities or other unwanted matter from something (or in this context -
someone). He knows the right temperature at which the unwanted matter will be
removed. He sets and watches to ensure the refining process is done
effectively. He knows when all the impurities are gone because HE IS ABLE TO SEE HIS IMAGE CLEARLY on what he is refining.
There are times when God allows us to pass
through a fire in order that He may refine us, purify us, and bring out the best
in us. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver [Malachi 3:3a, NIV]. God "sits" as a refiner and purifier. He
does not see us in the fire and walk away. He does not let the fire get too hot
(that we may be burned) or get too cold (that we may not come out refined as He
intended). He "sits", watching closely and keeping the temperature right. What
others may think would destroy us would make us stronger and much better people
- if we allow God. And when He is done, everyone, including Himself, can see an image on Him in us.
This scripture is consistent with His
promises. He said, "When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the
flames will not set you ablaze" [Isaiah 43:2]. We know that "the trials in
your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He
will not allow the trial to be more than you can stand. When you are
tried, He will show you a way out so that you can endure" [1Corinthians
10:13].
No matter what you go through, be rest assured
that your loving Father is with you, watching, and ensuring that the situation
does not burn you. In the midst of the situation, ask Him to show you what
impurities He wants to remove or what characteristics He wants to bring out of
you. His plans for you are always good - plans to give you the future you hope
for.
May you feel an added sense of God's presence today and always.
Remain blessed...
13 comments:
When the Refiner is at work, expect a masterpiece. Thanks for this post. It is encouragement to the broken and an affirmation to those who have overcome the storm. :)
just the kind of encouragement i need my sista! thanks for this post.
thanks for dropping by my blog, am following you now. have a swell week!
Fire is not easy to go thru, but it always leaves us refined in the end
The first time I read that scripture I experienced God's love anew. The fact that He sits all through the process, made me realize the extent of His love for us His children.
I honestly need to see this especially today. Thanks for the reminder. Bless you
Thanks for the comment on my blog. Means a lot :)
Nice piece Rita! Keep it coming.
A word of encouragement!
Try, http://dcbverse.blogspot.co.uk/2008/10/vessel.html
So encouraging!!!! Thanks alot..You seem to post things that speaks to my situation..God bless :)
Yes ma! I hear!
I was watching a movie recently and one of the actors said, "when God wants to teach you something, He sends you a teacher". Indeed, the refiner knows the best temperature required to get the best out of us.
Awesome stuff ma :)
- LDP
Dearest sister thanks for the encouraging words,I would need more of these words to overcome this storm I pass tru.pls teach me to wait patiently on God in a time like this.
Lovely post. Thanks 4 taking a peek @ my blog.
This rings perfectly true and was a great reminder...thank you!
Can there be any mistake in the work of the great refiner? NO!
Thanks for this post, it should be a great encouragement to us in Nigeria.
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