Friday, March 5
Jesus Is My Refiner
By Denis Bland
And He will sit as a … purifier of silver. Malachi 3:3
Chronic pain has been an unexpected companion of mine since the late 90s. Enduring numerous inconclusive medical exams, procedures, and physician indifference, I became increasingly doubtful that the diagnosis I desperately sought would ever be attained. Pinning my hopes on a visit to the Mayo Clinic, my plea for help was rejected twice--the last time in a letter received on Christmas Eve two years ago. Obviously not the gift I had hoped for, it left me feeling helpless.
Sure, Kerri and I, as well as our kids and a number of friends, have faithfully prayed for my healing. It hasn’t happened yet. But God has provided glimpses of hope. Through the assistance of my son-in-law Mike and the internet, I was led to a Minnesota clinic where I received a diagnosis. Although I’ve undergone the prescribed treatment, the pain, though diminished, remains. God only knows when, or if, I’ll ever be healed. But I can see how He’s using this “thorn in the flesh” to mold my character—as I discover His.
Never the most compassionate guy, I’ve become more sensitive to the pain of others and cling to the promise that “blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” (Matt 5:7).
What tool is God using to refine you?
Jesus, You are my Refiner and Purifier. Help me to trust today that
You are working in love for eternal good.
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