A Bible study group came upon this remarkable phrase from the third chapter of Malachi, and being mystified by it one of them was assigned to visit a silversmith and make a report to the class about what he said on the subject that might cast some light on this statement. Having sought out a silversmith and related his objective the process of refining silver was fully described to him. "But," he asked, "do you sit while the work of refining is taking place?" "Oh, yes," replied the silversmith, "I must sit with a steady eye fixed on the furnace, for if the time necessary to refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured." And as the man got up to leave the shop the silversmith added another illuminating fact. "I only know when the process of purifying is complete when I see my image reflected in the silver." With this information in hand the man was able to explain in detail the beauty of the meaning of Malachi 3:3.

There are times when our Lord finds it necessary to put us in a furnace; to cause us to pass through the fires of affliction; to make us endure the pain and strain of the crucible. But at no time during the struggle does He ever take His watchful and concerned gaze off of His child, and we can be assured that His sole intent is the work of purifying us. Remember, even a sparrow does not die without God's notice, and Jesus has assured us that we are "more valuable than many sparrows." - (Mt. 10:31).

However, also keep in mind that the work of refinement isn't complete until the Refiner can see His image in the silver. It's only when "Christ is formed in you" (Gal. 4:19) that His work of refinement is finished in us.

Lonnie Ritchie

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