“Deep in the center of the earth, a diamond is formed. Though many will admire its beauty and usefulness, when its formation is complete, none views the process by which it is formed. It is hidden, unseen, in the darkness.  So is the work of God in the heart of man.”  -Diane Dew

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a Merchant looking for fine pearls. When He found one of great value, He went away and sold everything He had and bought it.” Matthew 13:45-46 (NIV)

God looks down upon us and sees a mighty treasure. We are all precious jewels in His sight, for He took great care in our unique and marvelous design. And just as every snowflake, pearl, or diamond is rare and distinct, so are we! In fact, the Lord paid a great price to rescue us from a fate worse than death, and from the hand of an evil and powerful foe.

Pearls start off as grains of sand tucked inside a clam. Confined to a season of constant darkness and pressure, they eventually break free of their confines as transformed beauties. Humble and unpretentious, pearls are unique for they are the organic products of another living creature.

Diamonds are also created with pressure. However, they don’t emerge from the earth perfect and beautiful, like some natural pearls. Diamonds require additional work. Their transformation is not finished until a Master artist chips away their rough and pitted surfaces.

The skillful hand of this master craftsman is needed to finish their transformation. With careful hands He chips away unwanted surfaces from the diamond, eventually exposing the stark beauty within its specific shape and design.

Transformation requires intense pressure and this pressure involves pain.

Through the process of sanctification, we too endure extraordinary pressures. Our refinement is not an easy enterprise. Perseverance is vital while the Lord transforms us into perfect gems. A heart full of submission will spur on the refinement process. Our wills must completely surrender to the King if an honest transformation is to occur.

As you undergo this miraculous and life-long process, comfort is always near by. God provides His supernatural strength when it is most needed. He may send believers your way to share words of encouragement and hope. He will definitely speak to you in ways only you can acknowledge and recognize. There are so many encouraging promises written in the Bible and the Holy Spirit will faithfully guide you to them as well.

“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”  John 17:17 (NKJV)

The Devil just can’t be happy when a saint receives victory over a sin during this refinement. It means that he has one less way to seduce, trap, and deceive. And since he is a prowling lion, ever hungry and forever watching for opportunities to pounce and devour, we must remain on the defensive. 

A soldier in battle never lets his guard down. He may be injured or weary from the fight, but he is always alert and awake. We too, are in battle…. Always! The principalities of darkness never forget us, so don’t think you have gone unnoticed during a season of rest and peace. These sinister principalities are always watching and know nothing of mercy.

As the rocky edges are chipped from your being, and God continues to transform you from coal to diamond, look up. Yes, the pain will end and the enemy will not have any place in your eternal home. There is hope in today and joy to be found, even in the midst of your present suffering.

You are the pearl in Matthew 13:45-46.  God is the Merchant.  When finding you, He sees your value and sells everything He has in order to purchase you.  Jesus purchased you with is blood.  You are His treasure.  Think about your value and cost to God.  With this in mind, will you now submit your whole heart and ask God to have His way with you? Are you ready for the astonishing process of sanctification?

CONSIDER THESE SCRIPTURES AND QUOTE DURING YOUR QUIET TIME

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NKJV)

“Submit to God and be at peace with Him; in this way prosperity will come to you.” Job 22:21 (NIV)

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, its about learning to dance in the rain.”  ~UNKNOWN