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STUDY 331

Text: Proverbs 27
28 October 2007

Dear Parents,

THE REFINEMENT PRINCIPLE

Refinement as a process is a very natural part of life. Many things require refinement, before the full value can be appreciated. The following proverb describes this principle.

The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold,
And a man is valued by what others say of him.

Proverbs 27:21

Let us recall a similar proverb.

The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold,
But the LORD tests the hearts.

Proverbs 17:3

1. The need for refinement

a) Both silver and gold require a refinement process

Their full value would never be realized until they undergo a refinement process!

b) The human heart also needs a refinement procedure

The Lord Himself will seek to put in place a refinement process that will try the human heart. He may use intense heat to bring about refinement. But the heat (trials and tribulation, for example) will never harm the heart!

2. Valued by what others say of him

How does this work?

a) Tough words

Sometimes, tough words may be hurled against an individual. They may even be painful and hurtful words. But if well understood, these hard words can work for the good of the individual.

i) Tough words can bring about good changes.

ii) Tough words may be compared to the fire that refines silver and gold.

b) Good words

If the refinement principle is well understood, it can go a long way to enhance the value of the individual!

Let us accept the refinement process God ordains for us! We could come forth as purified silver and gold!

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie