Some time ago, a few ladies met to read the scriptures. While reading
the third chapter of Malachi they came upon a remarkable expression
in the third verse. "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of
silver." One lady's opinion was that it was intended to convey the
view of the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ. Then she
proposed to visit a silversmith and report to her friends what he
said on the subject. She went accordingly and without telling the
objective of her errand, begged to know the process of refining
silver, which he fully described to her.

"But sir," she said, "do you sit while the work of refining is going
on?" "Oh, yes madam," replied the silversmith. "I must sit with my
eye steadily fixed on the furnace, 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 too, of the
expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."
Christ sees it needful to put His children into a furnace. His eye is
steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are
both engaged in the best manner for them. Their trials do not come at
random. The very hairs of our head are all numbered.

As the lady was leaving the shop, the silversmith called her back,
and said he had something further to mention: that he only knows when
the process of purifying is complete by seeing his own image
reflected in the silver. Beautiful example! When Christ shall see His
own image in His people, His work of purifying will be accomplished.