Zechariah 13:9

This third I will bring into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, “they are mine,” and they will say, “The Lord is our God.”

Do you feel a little like you’ve been through the Refiner’s fire this past year? We all have that in common and will each handle it quite differently I’m sure. Those I’m closest to have had times of frustration, fear and anger while some moved with lots of freedom during this crisis. My perspective has helped me walk in the latter… I’ve not feared or felt restricted much at all.

Testing has a way of bringing out what is truly the heartbeat of God in our life; what we truly believe to be true about Him. He says to us, “You are mine!” I hope that is comforting if you have been fearful.

I love the concept and word picture of testing and refining with fire. It’s a slow process of applying heat until the impurities float to the top and can be skimmed off. Even though it takes time and the heat is intense, patience will bring a beautiful result. The one who is crafting the “silver and gold” sits by with a keen eye as the process unfolds.

Know that God will work everything out in His perfect timing; He may have to turn up the heat, but you and your prodigal both are in capable, refining hands!

Zechariah 13:9

______ I will bring into the fire; I will refine ______ like silver and test him/her like gold. ______ will call on my name and I will answer him/her; I will say, “______ is mine,” and ______ will say, “The Lord is my God.”