But the LORD Trieth the Hearts

“The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold:

but the LORD trieth the hearts.”

Proverbs 17:3

This verse is telling us that most things of value go through a process before they are of any use.

A fining pot, the term means “crucible”, is used for silver to get the impurities out of it… but the LORD trieth the hearts.

A furnace is where they put gold to make it better… but the LORD trieth the hearts.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t really enjoy the LORD trying my heart, but… I know I need it from time to time.  And I know, that I especially need it when I look at those around me… and I think to myself that “I’m doing pretty well”.  Because that is the beginning of pride..!  The Bible warns us, “they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”  And it’s the beginning of the wrong focus, of not - “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith” (2 Corinthians 10:12, Hebrews 12:2)

Are you being “tried”?  Are you facing a “crucible”?  Are you without Christ, is God working to bring you to salvation?  Or are you a dear child of God who is being refined and purified?  Let Him.  Let God do whatever He chooses to do in your life – it will be for the best, it will be for your best, and for His glory.