by David Chadwick

"The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and the Lord tests hearts." Proverbs 17:3

Silver is refined in the crucible, as is gold in the furnace. Similarly, our hearts and lives must be tested, purified, and refined by the Lord in whatever ways he sees fit.

Titus 2:14 says that Jesus "gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works." Jesus sacrificed his life to pave the way for humanity to be reunited with the Father. He died to redeem us and to purify us! Jesus loves us all so much, and at times, he may test our faith to make us more pure.

God tested Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22. It's part of his nature and character to discipline his children. Hebrews 12:7 says, "It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline?" Every good father who really cares about his children desires for them to be trained up, equipped, and walking in maturity.

This is partly why we are to rejoice when trials come our way (Romans 5:3-5). When we walk through trials and are tested, we are given the invitation to grow and mature. Hard times, when handled righteously, produce patience, and patience produces character, and proven character gives us hope, which does not disappoint.

How else can God know if our faith is real if he doesn't test it? Is it only through mere words? No! Words can be cheap. Daniel was proven worthy in the lion's den. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fire. Abraham and Sarah as they waited for Isaac.

Fire always burns off selfish and sinful dross. It purifies the things that are hindering your faith from growing and advancing–that which is keeping you from being pure like silver and gold.

Let me challenge you to look at your tests of faith as positive things. Thank God for them! Every time, God is giving you a pop quiz. Be ready WHEN they occur. And pass them well. As you do, feel God's delight in you.