Molded by the Master
Continuing the Conversation…
Purpose within the Stress of Life
“If my life is to be a crucible amid burning heat, so be it, but do thou sit at the furnace mouth to watch the ore that nothing be lost.”
Purposeful Pressure
The volcano explodes and spews lava to form new land. Forest fires consume but renew the soil for fresh growth. The plow cuts the earth in preparation to nourish new crops. Nature demonstrates the harsh work of transforming elements into something beautiful and fruitful. Humans, too, experience the crucible of life’s stress. Under God’s careful guidance, such pressures can produce strength, usefulness, and beauty.
I recently observed a forceful master craftsman at work, and thought of how life’s blows and trials shape us. The Biltmore Estate blacksmith, Steve Schroeder, fascinated me with his artistry. He demonstrated the creation of a signature piece, the rose hook—a sturdy metal wall peg adorned by a blossoming flower. Steve combined a unique blend of rugged function with aesthetic ornament. As he worked, I watched the iron bar glow red from the fire. Once softened, the rod received the pounding hammer and then hissed in protest when plunged into water to set the new shape. Fire and cold stressed the material, but only to accomplish the purpose of the artist’s design.
Guided by the Master Craftsman
During the process, I noticed how the blacksmith’s eyes guarded each aspect of the raw material he molded. He carefully measured the metal’s responses to heat and force. From years of experience, he knew how far he could stretch and how thin he could hammer to protect the ore’s integrity and bring out its beauty. He persisted in applying various pressures until the ore yielded to the design of his intent. He commented, “I can heat the piece as many times as I need to shape it.”
When he completed his work, the blacksmith pointed out the unique tool marks discernable in each piece. He explained these “imperfections” increased the value of his creations, revealing them as handmade by the artist. An ordinary utensil, such as a spoon or hook, transformed into a sculpture when formed by the master craftsman.
Peace in the Process
The methods bringing growth and change may seem harsh and violent. They cut, burn, shock, prune, bend, and purify. For flesh and bone, as well as mind and heart, transforming processes mean pain. What makes the difference between devastation and transformation? The skill and care of the artist who guides the process determines the outcome. And if the elements yield, they become art.
All of us experience the anvils of trials and the furnaces of affliction. In my times of distress and fear, the close presence of God brings me peace to trust the process. He comforts me with the promise of his purposes. Through the words in his Book, he assures me he works for my good and desires to bring out the best of my character. The one who forms me knows me intimately. He knows the stresses I can bear, even when I doubt it. He labors to bring out the best in me, not to break me.
As I feel the pressure of heartache, illness, grief, deprivation, insecurity, anxiety, or fear, I receive them through the purposes of the Master Craftsman. I take confidence he can use them to mold me into the unique and beautiful design he created me to be. He watches me closely in the furnace so that no precious ore is lost and a rose of strength emerges.
What refinement has God brought to you out of a furnace of affliction?
Quote Reference:
Arthur Bennett, ed., The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions (Edinburgh, UK: Banner of Truth Trust, 2002), 147.