Not just any refiner. The Only-Wise One!
Not just any unrefined object. Me!
He knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. —Job 23:10.
He knoweth our frame. -Psalm 103:14
He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men. -Lamentations 3:33
The foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work. -2 Timothy 2:19-21
He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. -Malachi 3:3
I . . . will refine them as silver is refined, . . . 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
Refining is good.
Refining is desirable.
Refining is essential.
Refining hurts…