GenesisSample

Gold

If you’ve ever looked at buying jewelry, particularly gold, you’ve probably noticed the hefty price tag. What makes gold so expensive? There are many reasons, but generally, it comes down to its rarity, beauty, malleability, and its corrosion resistance. However, another reason gold is so valuable is the complicated refining process.

Traditionally, a craftsman would sit next to a hot fire, and by hot, it means around 1800F, with molten gold in a crucible being stirred and skimmed to remove the impurities. The refinement process has basically remained unchanged after all these years - heat the metal until the impurities are removed, and then what’s left behind is the purest form of gold.

Peter used the gold refinement process as a metaphor for trials and suffering. But He adds that your faith, when tested for its genuineness and purity, is more precious than gold. To think that God Himself is mining and refining something in you more valuable, rare, and beautiful than gold—that reframes the trials and suffering we endure and turns them into honor and reason for praise.

Takeaway challenge: If you’re facing a challenge today, praise God for the refining fire. It will be tough, but use the lyrics from "Gold" to strengthen you.

“Let me be consumed til all that is left is You
Here I am renewed and all that is left, and all that is left is You”