"HE SHALL PURIFY THEM AS GOLD AND SILVER." God's people are as precious metals, afflictions are His furnace, purification is His design. He therefore puts them into the furnace, and He keeps them there until His end is accomplished. But He supervises the whole process Himself: He regulates the heat, watches its operation, and sits awaiting the fulfillment of His design. He will not be disappointed, for if one affliction does not produce the desired end He sends another. Beloved, have you wondered why one fiery trial has followed another? Simply because the dross was not altogether removed. Your sorest trials are among God's best mercies, because they are intended to make you fit to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints of light. Think not that you are being abandoned in your sorrows. Your Lord intently watches over you and as soon as your pride, obstinacy, worldliness, and opposition to His will are purged, the fire is withdrawn; and your testing will end. There shall not be one trial or suffering more than is necessary. Your Redeemer who died for your sins is also your Refiner even now preparing you for glory.

For Meditation:
With me in the fire remain
Till like burnished gold I shine;
Pure through consecrated pain,
I see Thy face divine.