Job 23:10: “But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” [NIV]
I am reminded of all those Olympic athletes who practiced and performed for four-years before this 2018 Olympics. Some suffered injuries. Some suffered losses at previous events around the world. Some won World Cup events. Each one brought hopes and dreams of greatness to South Korea. They were looking for gold.
The only way to gold, however, is by testing. There would be a time when each of these Olympic hopefuls would face a trial. Whether before a human judge or a clock, they would need to respond correctly in the testing if they were to achieve the highest honor, gold.
Paul wrote to the Romans: We also rejoice in our suffering because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance character and character, hope. [5:3-4]
Character in Biblical terms means something that is tested and proven reliable, it can also refer to metal that has been purified in the fire. You heat silver and gold by fire and all the impurities rise to the surface and are skimmed away. You know the refining process is complete when you can see your reflection on the surface.
We know we have passed the test when we can see the reflection of Christ, the highest honor, in our character. Like Job, when we are tested, and respond the right way to the testing, we will come forth as gold—in the image of our Savior and Lord, Christ Jesus.
