Spiritual Refining

Read Isaiah 48:1-11

Refining is removing impurities or undesired materials from a product. In Isaiah 48:10, the prophet told His people, “I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tried you in the furnace of affliction.” God intended to refine us. However, the process is by removing impurities. He wants to purify and strengthen us in order to conform to His image. Isaiah declared God tests us like silver in the furnace of sorrow, as if purifying a metal. It doesn’t sound very encouraging, does it?

Because we serve a mighty God, we believe it entitled us to a life free of storms. We want to follow Jesus, but we don’t want to suffer for His sake. Suffering is a purifying fire that burns away the impurities of pride, ungodliness, and selfishness. He purifies us through our trials and tribulations so that we might become the men and women He desires. Our afflictions have a reason and a significance. God’s love, grace, and mercy are revealed to us in our suffering. We are aware of His ability to enhance and refine our character.

In this season, how can you use your suffering to enhance your faith?