The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart...A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool.
A crucible was used from ancient times as a container for melting or testing metals, crucibles were probably so named from the Latin word crux, “cross” or “trial.” Another definition of crucible is a “severe test”. Just like the purity of silver or gold was tested in extreme heat, God will allow severe tests to come into our life to expose our heart. It is through crisis and trial that we demonstrate whether or not our heart is really with God or we just follow him when times are good. A relationship is similarly tried by difficult conversations. A true friend will appreciate an honest rebuke. I often say that I do not the depth of a relationship until we undergo conflict. The relationship that ends or sours because we had to say difficult things is on shaky ground. The relationship that appreciates open, honest, and loving communication is set on a firm foundation.
Have your relationships passed the crucible test?
No comments:
Post a Comment