The Purpose of Crucibles

The Purpose of Crucibles
From: Today God Is First by Os Hillman
January 19, 2020

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

This proverb describes one of God's strangest mysteries. It is a description of God's formula to refine the human heart in order to bring out its finest qualities.

The significant leaders who make the greatest mark for the Kingdom had to experience their own crucible and fire. Without it, the dross can never be removed from the human heart.
Without it, the encumbrances weigh us down. God understands the human heart. He understands that for us to become all that He hopes for us, there are seasons of fire.

Joseph went through many tests. Succeeding in the testing qualified him for greater responsibility. The greater the use in the Kingdom the greater the crucible to prepare the right foundation.

Some of God's greatest crucibles are found where we live every day: the friend who betrays our confidence, the spouse who breaks the marriage vows, the neighbor who disdains our friendship, the employee who betrays our trust, the client who refuses to pay, the vendor who falls short of our expectations.

Each of these is a test God allows to find out how we will respond.

What tests are being brought your way today?

His grace has been provided that you and I might pass the tests that He brings before us. Should we fail, we need not fear. His grace is sufficient for this as well.

Ask God for the grace to walk with Him in whatever tests He has placed before you this day. He is able to accomplish what He wants for you.