Isaiah 48:10

Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.

Daddy,

         I know Your desire is for my heart to be pure. This is my desire, too. At least I think it is. Lately I've been seeing how little I really know myself. I take solace in knowing that You have created me and know me fully, even when I do not know myself.

         I know that testings and trials are so good -- I even know this in my heart, not just in my head. But sometimes I feel a bit squeezed.

         Right now, I feel You turning up the heat in the furnace. Sometimes it makes it difficult for me to keep my gaze locked on You. The scorcing flames lick at my soul and stir up all sorts of dross inside of me.

         I want to be gold. I want to be silver - pure - without the dross. I want to see You. I want my heart to beat with Yours.

         I am grateful to know that You're in this furnace with me. Thank You for not demanding that I walk perfectly through this season, but for simply accepting my best try.

         All I ask is that You teach me how to receive Your grace.

Love,
Your Daughter