A good reminder for us all.<P>Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the scriptures. While reading the<BR>third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable expression in the<BR>third verse:<BR>"And He [God] shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver" (Malachi 3:3).<BR>One lady decided to visit a silversmith to learn about the process of<BR>refining silver. After the smith had described it to her, she asked, "But<BR>Sir, do you sit while the work of refining is going on?"<BR>"Oh yes, Madam," replied the silversmith; "I must sit with my eye steadily<BR>fixed on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining be exceeded in<BR>the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."<BR>The lady at once saw the beauty, and comfort too, of the expression, "He<BR>shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."<BR>God sees it needful to put His children into a furnace;<BR>His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love<BR>are both engaged in the best manner for us. Our trials do not come at<BR>random, and He will not let us be tested beyond what we can endure.<BR>Before she left, the lady asked one final question, "When do you know the<BR>process is complete?"<BR>"Why that is quite simple," replied the silversmith. "When I can see my own<BR>image in the silver, the refining process is finished."<BR>* Submitted by Ellen Schultz<P>

Thanks so much, SueB, I forwarded this to several people who will benefit, I think (including my cousin who is a minister).<P>lizpearl<P>------------------<BR><P>

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>"When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is finished."<HR></BLOCKQUOTE><P>I just love this part! How often I forget that this is the goal, that I put on His characteristics, make His thoughts my thoughts, His will, my will etc. until His return.<P>I am in the fire right now and needed this reminder as well.