Hebrews 1:3 says, “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.”
We are created to exemplify the Lord, to have his image stamped deep into our hearts. We certainly cannot represent him in our own strength.
When metals are heated in a crucible, the dross comes to the surface so it can be skimmed off. The dross is not exposed until it faces the intensity of the fire. The same is with our hidden sin.
He purifies our faith purified in the crucible of our trial. Through the refining fire, he brings our sin-dross to the surface and removes it. He exposes our ‘alloy’ of buried lies that we have believed. These lies lose their power and control when brought into the light. We then renounce them and affirm the truth.
Here is a verse of a song called “Nothing Is Impossible”: Your character is forged in me. Your anvil strong and true. You bring me through the fiery trials—my faith refined-secured. Your will is accomplished as I yield to your hand. My thoughts are united with your purpose and plans. As I walk in the path you choose You establish my heart. I serve you with thanksgiving and praise. You alone are worthy, O my Lord.
Fiery trials are essential tools that God uses to forge his character in us. Hidden sin-dross weakens our faith and tarnishes our witness. The more we embrace the Lord in our trials, the more we will reflect him to those around us.
Father, thank you that your presence is with us in our fiery trials. As we cling to you, you expose and remove our dross of hidden sin from our hearts. I am so grateful that you are absolutely trustworthy. When my faith is weak, you remain faithful because you cannot deny yourself.
Song of Encouragement: “O to Be Like Thee”
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