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I grew up in a small coal mining town in western Pennsylvania. Although not perceived as such by those who grew up there, others in the area viewed it as a rough little town. Eventually, I took a teaching job in an adjacent county. Once, my principal, when speaking about my hometown, referred to me as a diamond in the rough. I am unsure if I ever lived up to that description, but hearing those words was nice.

Coal and diamonds are both formed from different forms of carbon. Diamonds are subjected to extreme heat and pressure—1200 degrees Fahrenheit and 720,000 pounds per square inch. They become pure carbon, whereas coal has many impurities. Yet this beautiful gem becomes the hardest material known to humanity and one of the most valuable.

The Bible reminds us not to be caught off guard when we face many fiery trials. These trials can come from external circumstances or from within us.

We live in a rough world. Accusations, misunderstandings, and rejection are common and sometimes intensify the heat and pressure to almost unbearable levels. But the same sun that nourishes plants can also scorch the soil. Our trials can embitter or empower us; the deciding factor is our perspective. Trials can be the catalyst for our growth and spiritual maturity.

When we appear to struggle the most, God is at work in us. Struggle is the name of the game. The pressure applied to us will make us into a crown jewel in God’s royal collection.

God may not have created our circumstances, but He controls them and uses them to remove impurities and conform us to His image. He is making us into diamonds that reflect His grace and glory in a rough world. He is also recreating us into one of His crown jewels.

Think of ways you could change your perspective about your trials. 

(Photo courtesy of pixabay and PRISCILAFLORES.)