“so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”1 PETER 1:7 · BSB · READ THE CHAPTER →Greek: dokimion (G1383), proven genuine
Peter wrote to Christians who were scattered, slandered and suffering. He didn't tell them the pain was imaginary. He told them it was purposeful.
The word he uses, dokimion, was used for testing metal to prove it was genuine. A refiner heats gold until the impurities rise to the surface, then skims them off. A popular illustration says he knows the work is done when he can see his own reflection in it.
God isn't careless with your pain. He is patient with your purity. What feels like being consumed is actually being cleaned.
So change the question. Stop asking only “when will this end?” and start asking “what is being burned off of me?” The answer is the treasure the trial is producing.
- What is this current trial bringing to the surface in you?
- How have past fires proven God faithful to you?
- How can you cooperate with the Refiner instead of resisting Him?
Name one impurity this season is exposing in you: pride, bitterness, a secret habit. Confess it to God by name today.
One chapter a day will change you more than one big moment a year.