February 21

The Refiner's Fire

And He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will present offerings to the LORD in righteousness. — Mal 3:3 BSB

so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. — 1 Pet 1:7 BSB

Nothing is harder to bear than the apparent aimlessness of suffering.

They say that what breaks a convict’s heart in prison is being set to move stones from one side of the yard to the other, only to move them back again. But we must never see the trials of life as punishments, because all penalty was borne by our Lord. Instead, they are intended to destroy the weeds and rubbish in our hearts, as bonfires clear the gardens. Christ sees us with eternity in mind, and only He can judge what we need to undergo to prepare us for that eternal sphere. If we knew what place we were destined to fill in the next world, we would understand the meaning of His dealings with us, which are now beyond our grasp. The Refiner has a purpose, though those standing beside Him may not understand the process.

Dare to believe that Christ is working according to a plan in your life. He loves you, so be patient! He wouldn’t take so much trouble if it weren’t worth it. "We do not prune brambles, nor cast ordinary stones into the crucible, nor plow sea-sands!" You must be capable of some special service, which requires a carefully prepared instrument. So Christ sits beside you, year after year, as the Refiner, ensuring that you miss nothing.

While the fire is hot, keep conversing with the Refiner. Remember these words: “He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” This thought is especially helpful for those who struggle with long prayers but can talk to Christ as He sits beside them. Brother Lawrence (Nicholas Hermann) once said that, as he couldn’t concentrate during prolonged prayers, he sought constant conversation with Christ. So speak to Him in the midst of your daily toil. He hears your unspoken prayers and catches your whispers. Talk to Him about your trials and joys! Make Him your confidant in everything! Nothing makes Christ more real than talking to Him aloud about everything.

Prayer

Let the fire of Your love consume in me all sinful desires of the flesh and mind, that I may henceforth continually abide in Jesus Christ my Lord and seek the things where He is seated at Your right hand. Amen.