Day 319 Refined Together — When Praise Lifts and Iron Sharpens

Refined Together — When Praise Lifts and Iron Sharpens

by Torrie Slaughter

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Psalm 113–114; Proverbs 27:17

After a week of fire and formation, the psalmist reminds us that refinement always leads somewhere: to praise and to people. God purifies hearts so our worship becomes authentic and our community becomes strong.

💎 The God Who Lifts the Lowly

“He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap.” (Psalm 113:7)
Refinement never leaves us in ashes; it lifts us to honor. The same God who sits enthroned above the heavens stoops to elevate those who feel forgotten. His holiness is not distant—it’s near, compassionate, and personal.

Reflection: Where has God lifted you lately? How can your gratitude become the song that lifts someone else?

🌊 The God Who Moves Mountains and Hearts

“The sea looked and fled, the Jordan turned back.” (Psalm 114:3)
Creation itself trembles before the Lord’s presence because even nature knows when glory draws near. Every obstacle bows to His authority. When God refines us, He isn’t just changing us—He’s rearranging the landscape around us to make room for His purpose.

Action Step: Instead of fearing what shakes, praise the One who shakes it. Your surrender could be the key that parts the waters.

🔥 The God Who Sharpens Through Community

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)
Refinement is not a solo project. God often uses people to polish our rough edges—friends who speak truth, mentors who correct, believers who challenge us to grow. That friction may feel uncomfortable, but it’s holy work.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the refining fire and for the people who help me shine brighter. Teach me to welcome both the heat and the hands You use to shape me. May my praise rise like the dawn, and may my life call others to tremble—in awe, not fear—at Your presence. Amen.