The Purpose of Crucibles

By far, this has been the strangest off season we’ve had since we started our business. At times it seems as if all we’ve been doing is wandering around with no direction. We know that is not true. Every season of life has a purpose, even if we are not sure what that purpose might be.

In the last few months, we have worked hard to stay focused on the task at hand while we leave the heavy lifting to our Father. I could have easily spent much of my time ‘chasing’ other work or finding special financing or whatever to try and push our company forward, but that is not what He wanted me to do. Was I completely faithful, no. To a small degree I did pursue a few things, but only because it seemed like that’s what I, emphasis on I, thought I should do. The outcome, it all failed, yep, nada, zip, zilch, zero. Perhaps this is the last time I have to be tested in this area.

There are times when everything around us seems to be in complete chaos driving us to do something, anything to keep moving forward. When life gets weird, we must remember our history with Him and how He has guided us to that point. Yes, reflect on the past victories and triumphs and keep marching. Our job is to trust and be obedient to the direction He has already given us. I know, some days that is much easier said than done.

Today I am hearing Him say, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 Time to strap in and hang on, the roller coaster is about to crest the top of the hill!

Blessings

The Purpose of Crucibles
by Os Hillman

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 test 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 in the workplace where we live every day: 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 from God to find out how we will respond. What tests are being brought your way today? His grace has been provided that we 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.