I was recently invited to go with a group of ladies to a local museum. Among several educators, artisans and craftsman we found a Blacksmith displaying his prowess. He was soft spoken and apparently in his late 60’s-early 70’s. He went about his craft with vivid detail. He explained minutely a few of his working tools and showed us a small display of his creations. We then began to watch him mold a yard ornament in which he was shaping in the form of a heart.
As I watched him place the rod of iron in the fire I could see that the rod became red hot. He then stated, “ If you don’t heat the iron, it won’t bend. Unheated iron breaks.” What a deep spiritual truth came over me as he spoke these words like a master craftsman.
Our Master delights in His creation of us. He works on us throughout our lifetime. The fire we go through is the test we persevere. Though we may feel the test will break us, surely it won’t. If we trust our lives to the Master no trial shall overcome us.
“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those that love Him. (James 1: 12).”
As I continued to watch the master craftsman heat and bend the iron into a beautiful heart shaped ornament I was deeply moved. He took such care and patience in not to bend it too far, or to break it. God goes to the same lengths with us. He takes care not to bend us too far that we would break. In the process our hearts become more willing to bend to His command. Our spirit becomes soft to His touch and His voice. If we hold on to Him through every trail we endure, we become a more beautiful display of His glory.
As the craftsman held up his ornament for inspection you could see the pride and joy in his eyes. He thoroughly enjoyed his creation. God too enjoys us. He looks forward to the day when all the testing we go through will make us what he has designed us to be. So do not be weary when the Masters hand needs to re-shape and redirect your life. He is working on an eternal masterpiece. It is only then that we will be a completed work of art that will bring Him great pride and joy.
Father though I do not like it
Feel free to bend me as you wish
Mold me Lord, a perfect vessel
That shines Your glory out and in.
Thank you for your tender hand
That will not cause my heart to break
Teach me to follow Your command
That I might know You more each day
Email: besidestillwater@excite.com
Web site: http://besidestillwater.faithweb.com
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