A blacksmith melts iron or steel, removes impurities from the metal, and then forges it with a hammer for its intended purpose. A Christian life is often likened to this smithing process. By its implication we know that the trials we are undergoing are accompanied by pains, so why are we slow to give any thought to the blacksmith who, soaked in perspiration, keeps forging the metal at temperatures in thousands of degrees Celsius? In this same manner, God diligently works and unsparingly sacrifices Himself to remove impurities in our hearts. If we realize the allegory's parallels, shouldn't we be able to willingly entrust ourselves to the hands of God (Job 23:10).