The idea of refinement has for so long been associated with certain human characteristics that we are prone to regard it mainly in relation to the gentleness of manner, the inborn grace and courtesy of a person of artistic tastes and delicacy of feeling. In order, however, to gain a more enlightened comprehension of the word, it is essential to know that refinement is a quality and expression of Spirit, and can be realized only in the degree that men reflect the divine attributes. Truth is in reality the only refiner, and true refinement consists of the reflection and demonstration of divine Love.
The prophet Malachi alludes to the Christ sitting "as a refiner . . . of silver;" and in this connection it is interesting and instructive to remember that the refiner's task was not considered complete until he was able to see his own reflection in the purified metal. In like manner Truth sits enthroned as the refiner of consciousness until the world's corroding stain shall be effaced by the apprehension of the spiritual idea, and consciousness shall shine with untarnished radiance as the image and likeness of God.
Every student of Christian Science knows that when Truth once dawns upon his thought he can never again find abiding pleasure in the allurements of evil. He may, perchance, halt in hesitation beside the gate at which worldly impedimenta must be laid aside. He may even seek once more to find happiness in the capricious rapture of the senses, in intellectual distinction or plutocratic ambition; but Truth reigns undisturbed, ever active in the work of purification, until he has attained that spiritual supremacy which enhances his powers of endurance and finally gives him dominion over the chastening trials which have served to awaken him to the dignity of divine sonship.
