“Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel;”

In preparation for heading to Montana on a “BeTheEdge” fly fishing trip with about a dozen guys, I’m reading a book called When God Interrupts. Part of the book’s description reads: “Our lives are constantly changing. It’s hard to keep up, to keep our balance. It’s hard to keep trusting in God. And it’s especially difficult when the changes we’re faced with are unwanted: the death of a loved one, a child leaving home, an illness, a frustrated dream… the dark side of change.” The author deals with many of the painful and harsh realities of living in a fallen world. In this verse, Solomon lets us in on why. God loves us so deeply—He doesn’t shield us from those difficulties. Instead, He reinforces the truth that it is His great love that allows those things into our journey. He is refining us through fire to purify our souls and conform us to the image of His Son. Whenever I’m asked to give a benediction, I always pray the same thing: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely…” Little do those present understand what a dangerous benediction that is. Sanctification is a painful process. That’s why I believe Paul started this particular prayer with the reminder that God is the God of peace. His peace carries us through the journey of pain that is the refiner’s fire. His great love is committed to making us into His image. That is an inexpressible gift. Today, while having the dross removed, hang on to Him. #BeTheEdge

“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭23‬