FORGED IN THE FURNACE OF AFFLICTION

“Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.” (Isaiah 48:10 KJV)

Nobody likes to suffer. It is not a human trait to desire or enjoy pains of any kind. When we are in pain, we cry and our biology takes steps to escape the source of pain. But can pain or afflictions serve any purpose at all?

God stated in Isaiah 48:10 that he refines His elect and chooses them in the furnace of affliction. What does that mean? Does God enjoy inflicting pain on his elect? God forbid! There is no evil associated with God at all. Could there be refinement available through pain? We will explore this more in this reflection.

In deed, gold is never unearthed easily. It takes a painstaking effort to mine gold. Pure gold comes through the refining furnace. Every carat increase in value of gold is a consequence of a refining process in a furnace. With this analogy, we can find direction for our spiritual lives and God’s refining process for his chosen ones.

Vessels that are of ‘gold status’ in service to God must likewise be refined in same furnace of affliction. Becoming silver is okay but paramount in God’s heart for his ‘golden vessels’ is that refining, forging processes in the furnace of affliction. It is God’s tool for preparing his special vessels for the glory He will unveil in them.

Job was likewise forged in the furnace of affliction and he stated in Job 23:10— “But he knows the way I take; when He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Also, 1 Peter 1:7 encourages us that the trial of our faith is much more precious than gold that perish. When we are tried by fire in the furnace of affliction, the outcome is a product/Christian found “unto praise and honour and glory” at Jesus’ appearing.

I encourage you to keep looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is passing you through this furnace but you are being refined. Soon, the unveiling of His glory through you shall be evident for all to see. Hang in there and be furnished by his abundance grace. It is well with you and I pray you have the most wonderful, fulfilling and God-refining week. God bless you richly.
God bless you richly!