Job 12:9 "Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?"
Some years ago the most exquisite diamond in the history of the world was found in Africa. Soon it was presented to the king of England to adorn the crown of state. The monarch sent it to Amsterdam to be cut by an expert stonecutter. The latter took the precious gem, cut a notch in it, and struck a hard blow with his instrument. Now the superb jewel lay in his hand split in two pieces. What recklessness! What waste! What carelessness!
Not at all! For weeks that blow had been planned. Models and drawings were made of the stone. Its quality, its defects, its cleavage lines had been studied with care. The blow was but the climax of the lapidary's skill. By it he brought the stone to its most perfect radiance and splendor. From the two halves came the two magnificent gems that the skilled eye of the cutter saw hidden in the stone.
Redeemed through Christ, we are God's precious possession. Yet sometimes He lets a stinging blow fall upon our lives. We cry out in agony: it all seems an appalling error. But no, for to God we are the most precious jewel in the world. Some day we shall emblazon the diadem of our King. By His grace, the blow that falls only fits us better for the splendor of the crown of His glory.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, discipline us in love and truly fit us for the crown of life. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise," copyright 1996, Concordia Publishing House (out of print). For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800 325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: Job 3-4 Matthew 8:1-17
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