Smelting

Smelting is the process where substances, such as metals, are put into a furnace at high heat to purify the substance and remove the dross or the unwanted, worthless parts. It is a refining process that makes the substance stronger, better, and more valuable.

Sometimes God allows the same thing to happen to his people or a church. Too many impurities can weaken both. Although the time of being put into the fire is painful and worrisome when it is happening, the end result is worth it. We come out with more understanding, better, and refined. 

Look at Job. God didn't send the suffering and bad things into his life; Satan did. But God allowed it because He could use it for good. Not only was more restored to Job, but he came out of his struggles stronger, better, and refined. Job's faith had never been tested. Now it had, and in the process, it had grown stronger.

When sorrow and pain come into your life, turn to the Lord. Trust in Him. He has promised to bring good from the bad and to never leave us. In Him, we always find the comfort we need. He will work all things for good to them that love Him and are called according to His purpose.

________________________