The Silversmith

Some time ago, a few ladies met in a certain city to read the
Scriptures, and make them the subject of conversation. While reading
the third chapter of Malachi they came upon a remarkable expression in
the third verse: "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

One lady's opinion was that this was intended to convey the view
of the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ. Then she proposed
to visit a silversmith and report to them what he said on the subject.
 

She went accordingly and without telling the object of her errand,
begged to know the process of refining silver, which he fully
described to her. "But Sir" she said, "do you sit while the work of refining is
going on?" "Oh, yes, madam," replied the silversmith; "I must sit with my eye
steadily fixed on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining be exceeded
in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured." The lady at once saw the
beauty, and comfort too, of the expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and
purifier of silver." Christ sees it needful to put His children
into a furnace; His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying,
 and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner
 for them. Their trials do not come at random; "the very hairs of
your head are all numbered."
 

As the lady was leaving the shop, the silversmith called her back,
and said he had forgotten to mention that the only way that he knows
when the process of purifying is complete is when he sees his own image
reflected in the silver.

  -  Author Unknown
 

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