A silversmith is a person who fashions objects out of silver. To create beautiful long-lasting objects, the silversmith makes sure the silver has no impurities in it. To get them out, he heats the metal until all the impurities burn up. He is not satisfied until he can see himself reflected in the silver. Like the silversmith, God wants to see His character reflected in His children. Psalm 66 says, “You have tested us, O God; you have purified us like silver.” The psalmist celebrated that even though God had allowed him and his people to undergo trouble, those very trials had refined their character. The psalmist rejoiced that God not only manages the vast universe, He also directs the lives of those who trust Him. Depending on how we respond, life’s experiences serve to refine our character. God’s blessings can evoke praise and cause us to appreciate God’s love and provisions. Trials can cause us to draw near to God. During trials, we often shed those impurities that may be hindering our relationship with God. The psalmist rejoiced that just as God controls the universe, God manages the events that we encounter. For those who remain pliable, God is shaping us to reflect the likeness of His Son, Jesus. One day the Master silversmith will complete His work in us. At that time, He will be pleased to see Himself reflected in our character. Shout joyful praises to God, all the earth! Sing about the glory of his name! Tell the world how glorious he is. Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds! Your enemies cringe before your mighty power. Everything on earth will worship you; they will sing your praises, shouting your name in glorious songs.” Interlude Come and see what our God has done, what awesome miracles he performs for people! He made a dry path through the Red Sea, and his people went across on foot. There we rejoiced in him. For by his great power he rules forever. He watches every movement of the nations; let no rebel rise in defiance. Interlude Let the whole world bless our God and loudly sing his praises. Our lives are in his hands, and he keeps our feet from stumbling. You have tested us, O God; you have purified us like silver. You captured us in your net and laid the burden of slavery on our backs. Then you put a leader over us. We went through fire and flood, but you brought us to a place of great abundance. bible/116/psa.66.1.nlt
Posted on: Wed, 11 Sep 2013 11:38:46 +0000
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