George shared that the Called of God are a lot like diamonds.

You may be a diamond in the rough, ie., you are called and know that you are called. But, before a diamond can be 'displayed' it must be Cut and Polished.

This painful process may be long term and laborious depending upon the 'cut' and the anticipated setting. Or, for a simple setting may be quick and relatively painless.

Understand that the the Gem Cutter is Jesus, and it is He and He alone that determines the 'cut', the finishing polish, and the final setting for the stone. Only He can 'set' the Gem Stone in just the right setting to really display the Glory of His Work.

The problem we have is that a lot of purported diamonds are really still just lumps of coal. Never having gone through the flame, fire, heat, and pressure that makes a true diamond.

Question: With all the emphasis on the 'positive' we have in todays church, who can we find to submit to the forming process that makes a true diamond?

This presents a problem because if the gem stone 'resists' the Cutters' tool, that is the trial God has fixed to prepare him or her for service, the stone could shatter and become unuseable.

The good news is, is that while it is impossible with man to salvage a shattered stone, God can and does mend the broken stone. Though after a delay.

So, if you are a diamond in the rough, and under going a rather rough cutting and polishing session... REJOICE! Because, God only disciplines true sons and daughters and only cuts and polishes those He intends to 'set'.

So? You think you've arrived, all the pressure, heat, fire, and trauma is over with, and you are ready to be set in a place of ministry?

Have you any idea of how a jeweler sets a stone in its' setting?

First, the gem stone is forcibly smashed in between the prongs of the setting, then, as if thats not enough insult, the prongs are crimped around the stone with great force and pressure.

Even here there is a chance the stone or the setting could fail...