Refiner's Fire

It is said that the silversmith will not pour the hot silver into his molds until all the impurities have been removed and he is able to see his own reflection in the silver. So it is with our Lord, how do I know this?

Malachi 3:3

He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver;
He will purify the sons of Levi,
And purge them as gold and silver,
That they may offer to the LORD an offering in righteousness.

Isaiah 1:25&26
I will turn My hand against you,
And thoroughly purge away your dross,
And take away all your alloy.
I will restore your judges as at the first,
And your counselors as at the beginning.
Afterward you shall be called the city of the righteousness, the faithful city.

Our LORD desires to see His reflection in us. So much so that He goes to great lengths to show His love for us.

Romans 5:8
While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

John 1:12
As many as received Him, to them He gave the power to be called the sons of God, to those who believe in His name.

If you have 'received' Jesus Christ you can trust that He is at work in you and through you. Purging and stripping away the 'dross' that keeps Him from seeing His reflection in you. Will it be easy? No, most of the time it won't be. In fact, because we want to hold on so tightly to some things, it will be very difficult at times. However, you can rest assured, He will gently and patiently do His work in you when you allow Him to. And, He will get you safely through the refining and the purging.

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”