STORIES

As Precious As Silver

Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the Scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable statement in the third verse: "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver" (Malachi 3:3). One lady decided to visit a silversmith, and report to the others on what he said about the subject. She went accordingly, and without telling the silversmith the reason for her visit, begged him to tell her about the process of refining silver.

 

After he had fully described it to her, she asked, "Sir, do you watch while the refining is going on?"

 

"Oh, yes ma'am," the silversmith replied. "I must sit and watch the furnace constantly, for, if the time necessary for refining is exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."

 

The lady at once saw the beauty and comfort of the statement, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." God sees it as necessary to put his children into the furnace—but His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for us. Our trials do not come at random, and He will not let us be tested beyond what we can endure.

 

Before she left, the lady asked one final question, "How do you know when the process is finished?"

 

"Oh, that's quite simple," replied the silversmith. "When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is complete."

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St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray. And do you, O prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into Hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

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