2 Corinthians 3:18

2Co 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Some time ago, a few ladies met to study the scriptures. While reading the third chapter of Malachi, they came upon a remarkable statement in the third verse: "And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness" (Malachi 3:3)

One lady decided to visit a silversmith, and report to the others on what he said about the subject. She went accordingly, and without telling the silversmith the reason for her visit, asked him to tell her about the process of refining silver.

After he had fully described it to her, she asked, "Sir, do you watch while the work of refining is going on?"

"Oh, yes ma'am," replied the silversmith. "I must sit and watch the furnace constantly, 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 of the statement, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

God sees it as necessary to put His children into the furnace but His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for us. Our trials do not come at random, and He will not let us be tested beyond what we can endure.

Before she left, the lady asked one final question, "How do you know when the process is finished?"

"Oh, that's quite simple," replied the silversmith . . .When I can see my own image in the silver, the refining process is complete."

Pilgrim

Little by Little He's Changing Me
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQZRpYQvIMY