Crucibles
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At one time, I associated the word crucible with a high school chemistry laboratory. My understanding is deeper and different now.
Having lived longer, faced challenges, and survived the many knocks and bruises of life, I now have a spiritual awareness of the word. It is more than a ceramic or metal container in which substances may be melted or subjected to very high temperatures. I see a crucible as God’s righteous right hand upholding me in every stage of life, even when I do not realize it. God is guiding and protecting me in my choices.
The hot fire represents the various difficulties and trials that come upon me. All experiences in life are designed specifically to purify and transform our characters to become more like Christ. I am like the impure gold, defiled with sin.
A wonderful promise is that God, our Creator, is always with you and me in every trial and situation. Whenever we find ourselves in the crucible, we are never alone. We sometimes ask our Savior, Why do You send trials our way, and why so many? He reassures us that we are His children. He knows us and what is for our best good.
He wants to grow us so that we reflect His character.
Each fiery trial burns off the dross of sin in our character.
By remaining faithful, we will come forth refined and pure, revealing the lovely reflection of our Savior. This is when others will see God in us.
After building a strong relationship with the Son, I no longer think about high school memories of laboratories when faced with a crucible but focus instead on God.
I desire to be like Jesus, don’t you? With that as our desire, let us wholeheartedly learn to trust in Jesus! No matter what challenges we may face, we can say, “In Him, I place my trust!” Precious Father, we are Your children and admit we are sinners.
Thank You for the crucibles and trials that come our way.
Forgive us when we sin. May we remain faithful—in Your strength.
May we grow to reflect Your character and be a part of Your kingdom.
We love You and thank You for always loving us.
Amen.
Yvonne E. Ealey
