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  THE FURNACE FOR GOLD; BUT THE LORD TRIETH THE HEARTS
  by A.B. Simpson
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Summary: The sermon emphasizes the importance of resisting temptation,
trusting in God's guidance, and remaining confident in the face of
adversity.

Topics: "Overcoming Adversity", "Temptation"
Scripture References: Matthew 5:10-12, Romans 8:37, 1 Corinthians 10:13, Ephesians 6:10-11, Philippians 1:28, 2 Timothy 4:7, Hebrews 12:1-2, James 1:12, 1 Peter 5:8-9, 1 John 5:4

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DESCRIPTION
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A.B. Simpson emphasizes that temptation itself is not sin unless we
consent to it, and that even strong inclinations do not taint our purity
if we resist them. He illustrates that our true choice can remain
steadfast against temptation, and God honors our obedience in the face
of struggle. Simpson compares our response to temptation to a harp,
which produces beautiful music when played by the Master's hand,
signifying that our lives can reflect God's glory when we overcome
adversity. He encourages believers to stand firm against adversaries, as
their resistance is a sign of salvation from God.

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CONTENT
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Remember that temptation is not sin unless it is accompanied with the
consent of your will. There may seem to be even the inclination, and yet
the real choice of your spirit is fixed immovably against it, and God
regards it simply as a solicitation and credits you with an obedience
all the more pleasing to Him because the temptation was so strong. We
little know how evil can find access to a pure nature and seem to
incorporate itself with our thoughts and feelings. When, however, we
resist and overcome it we remain as pure as the sea fowl that emerges
from the water without a single drop remaining upon its burnished wing.

The harp, struck by a rude or clumsy hand, gives forth a discordant
sound-not from any defect o the instrument but because of the hand that
touches it.

But when the Master's hand pluck strings it produces chords of exquisite
delight. In nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an
evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God
(Philippians 1:28).

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ab-simpson/the-furnace-for-gold-but-the-lord-trieth-the-hearts/
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