Proverbs 17:1-14
The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold,
Proverbs 17:3
and the LORD tests hearts.
What does it mean for the LORD to test hearts? What does testing the heart look like? The first half of this proverb — the crucible and the furnace — suggests intense heat. Zechariah 13:9 and Malachi 3:3 similarly employ the refining of silver and gold to illustrate God’s activity. One thing is clear: testing is not passive observation; it is intensely active refining. And given that that is what God does, we should expect some heat. As Peter says:
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
I Peter 4:12