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“Because I, Yahweh, have not changed, you descendants of Jacob have not been destroyed.
Malachi 3:6 HCSB
Picking up on the truth of God’s refining process, we read in verse 6 that He is unchanging. What does this mean?
God’s nature is refinement and that nature is unchanging. In other words, even when we experience the fiery flames of sin, rebellion, and suffering, God is unwavering in His promises. Though we as believers may deserve to be consumed, we are instead made pure. Consider this truth.
A forest fire is an untamed beast which grows more powerful by the minute and decimates anything in its path. An incinerator burns at over 1500 degrees eradicating the most toxic and hazardous materials on the planet. But this is not God. He is a refiner. His process is more powerful than a forest fire and hotter than an incinerator, yet, it does not consume or destroy us. Why?
He is unchanging.
His love is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. His will is not dependent upon human choices.
This, of course, does not negate the responsibility the people had to obey their Lord and Savior. Because He was unchanging, He was also righteous and holy. His desire was for repentance.
“Your words against Me are harsh,” says the LORD. Yet you ask: “What have we spoken against You?” 14 You have said: “It is useless to serve God. What have we gained by keeping His requirements and walking mournfully before the LORD of Hosts?
Malachi 3:13-14 HCSB
The key for those who allow the flames of God to refine them comes down to trust and repentance. An individual with an enduring faith will persevere knowing that their lives are held by the mighty hand of God. They will look at the storms of life as a maturing process that calls them into deeper accountability with God. Joy will be found as they continue to open themselves up more and more to His refining process. It may take months, years, or a lifetime. However, the fact remains… our God is unchanging.