Being Refined

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Being Refined

Malachi 2:17 - 3:4; Matthew 3:8-12
A refiner knows when the metal is pure because he can see his reflection in it-- no impurities. As God refines us, He is looking for His reflection.
In days long ago, the launderer actually trampled on clothes with soap to push the dirt out. Sometimes it seems like God is trampling on us-- maybe that's why.
As God refines you, He works in:
- Your Life. We can't be used if we're going to live like the rest of the world. As we are refined, our character begins to give up the impurities. They "float" to the top and the the refiner skims them off. God makes no exceptions based on who you are or what your position is.
- Your Marriage. Husbands should love their wives the way Christ loved the church. Some marriages take the name of the Lord in vain.
- Your Family. Do your children see Christ in you? There needs to be a clear difference between us and the world.
- Your Work and School. Whose way are you following? John 15:8; John 17:17-18; Isaiah 1:16-19.
- The Church. Society crumbles when the Church of God doesn't function as God's instrument. Isaiah 35:8 - We can be the road that God uses to bring people to Himself.
The condition of your heart will show in how you live your life. Do we reflect God's image or are we full of impurities?

Wednesday, November 19, 2008 –