One of the outcomes of worshiping God is the burning away of the "chaff' in our lives. Getting close to God causes the fire of God to refine the gold in us. This is not a "technique" for growing in Christian life, but a principle that God applies to all of us. He is longing that we might all be- come more like His Son, Jesus, as we walk towards Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). But, being trans- formed into His likeness means we are to walk with "unveiled faces" (again 2 Corinthians 3:18) to reflect Jesus to others. Could "unveiled" mean that we should not be trying to hide our broken, sick conditions? Could it mean that we are to expose our weak- nesses for God's glory and so He can purge them from us? Certainly, it could! God puts it this way: "You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can be- come rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent." Revelation 3:17-19  

How can we repent, unless we are first able to give an honest inventory of our lives? The above verse is how God sees us apart from His grace. But isn't it just like God? He doesn't leave us to our own fate. Rather, He gives the answer for our plight immediately! He says "buy from me gold refined in the fire." Does God want us to walk through fire? Why? We can only "purchase" the gold of God by allowing His fire to burn off our impurities.  

We need to be accountable to our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. We all need to have some- one we can trust to hold us accountable. If someone is not holding us accountable, we will tend to stay in our broken, sick conditions.  

What's the bottom line? How do we start following God for the "gold" to be produced in our lives? Simply, do what God says.

The Bible is very clear about His instructions. We must also seek God's presence. His presence is only found in true worship. Not everyone can go there according to Psalm 24:3-4. "Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully." So, do as God instructs, "be earnest and repent."