When raw gold is heated to extremely high temperatures, it melts and any contaminants rise to the surface. After the dross is skimmed off, that which remains is pure, valuable, and fit for use.
Scripture refers to God as a 'refiner' who allows your faith to be tried in the fires of adversity ... Their purpose is to prove that your faith is genuine. Even gold, which can be destroyed, is tested by fire; and so your faith, which is much more precious than gold, must also be tested, so that it may endure. (1 Peter 1:7)
Christians are to live with the expectation of being tested by fire. Every trial you go through serves to authenticate your faith in Christ and strengthen your commitment to Him as Lord. He delights in those who are not shaken by the difficulties in this life.
On one occasion the disciples were in the middle of a storm. Overcome with fear, they confronted their leader ... Care not that we perish? (Mark 4:38) After Jesus calmed the sea, His rhetorical question revealed the purpose of all testing ... How is it that you have no faith? (Mark 4:40). This 'trial by fire' showed that dross still needed to be taken out of the way. He was preparing His followers for the day when their loyalty would come at great cost.
You too may be tempted to ask the Lord, 'Why are you allowing me to suffer like this?'
Remember that testing creates a strong, pure faith. When you look back, you'll see that it was necessary for your sanctification ... And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Be steadfast in your resolve, pilgrim.
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