Refined like silver, tried like gold

Refined like silver, tried like gold

Scripture: And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God. Zechariah 13:9

Observation: There is a segment within the church these days that preach no more suffering for believers because Jesus has already suffered for us. This movement says that once one becomes a Christian, he is destined for an effortless life, full of grace and blessing.

However, a close study through the Scripture shows that suffering is very much a part of the Christian life, even in the New Testament. In the book of James, he exhorts the believers to consider it pure joy when they endure trials of many kinds, because the testing of their faith produces perseverance so that they may become mature and complete, not lacking anything.

In Hebrews, it is also written how the Lord chastens those he loves and should we be weary in the toils of the world, to look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, scorning its shame and is sat down at the right hand of God!

In the Scripture today, we see the description of the third part, the remnant being refined as silver is refined, tried as gold is tried. This refining process involves going through the fire, but the fire removes the impurities and brings forth pure silver or gold.

In life, the Lord sometimes allows us to go through suffering, but it is a process by which we become more and more like Him in maturity, in love, in dependence on the Lord.

Application: No matter what suffering we are going through and how tough life seems, look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. How much more He suffered. Instead, accept the situation we are in, and trust God that He is using it to make us better and stronger. As we are refined in the fire, we will come forth like gold.

Prayer: Praise You, O Lord, for good days and bad days, for times of pleasure, and times of testing. Help me O Lord and give me strength during the difficult times. Sustain me, and let my eyes always look to You, for You are my God and You will help me through the darkest valley, the darkest night, and I will come forth refined, like gold. May Your name be praised forever. In Jesus name, Amen.