Scripture Reading: Job 23:10
But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

Reflections: Job was attacked on every side. He lost all his possessions. Soon after, his children died. Following these losses, his whole body was attacked with painful and infectious boils. When he thought he could find solace in his friends, things turned to the contrary. They rather levelled false allegations against him and castigated him on every side. In his defence, he submitted that his predicament was a trial of his faith and that he was going to ‘come forth as gold’. His reference to gold concerning his suffering indicates the process of gold fire assaying. This is the method by which gold ore is separated from impurities. It establishes the true worth and purity of the gold. By this, we understand that the trials of life (synonymous with the fire refining the gold) are not meant to break us but to churn out the best in us! 1Peter 1:7 and James 4:12 confirms this. Like Job, hold on as you go through trials. You will surely come forth as Gold!

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to endure trials and to come forth as gold.

Confession: Trials are part of the means to prove my allegiance to God. Anytime, anyhow, I shall endure by grace and come forth as gold.