It is needful that we pass through the furnace of affliction

(Cornelius Tyree, "The Benefits of Affliction")

"I have refined you in the furnace of affliction." Isaiah 48:10

Afflictions tend to purify us. Before some of the vessels of the temple could be used for sacred purposes, they had to be put into the fire.

Just so, before we are prepared for the Master's use, it is needful that we pass through the furnace of affliction.

The human heart, like the soil of the earth, has to be torn up by the plowshare of tribulation, before it will produce much fruit of holiness.

"When He has tried me, I will emerge as pure gold!" Job 23:10

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You may want to read the whole of Tyree's outstanding 12 page article, "The Benefits of Affliction".