An instrument, fine tuned

It is reported that each Steinway piano takes over a year to make. As part of the construction each soundboard is stretched to its maximum tolerance and allowed to sit for an extended period until it remains in the curved design. If the wood were alive, it would be crying out for mercy.

After an extended time of stretching, the wood will never spring back to its original state. It is permanently changed. The piano is becoming a fine-tuned instrument.

After this process takes place, the next step requires another point of stress. It takes 11 tons of pressure on a piano to tune it. Each step in the process moves the piano closer to a finished product that will ultimately be played by the world's finest musicians. These musicians desire a particular sound that only a piano like this can make.

“God looks at each of us as a fine-tuned instrument,” states Os Hillman. “However, we begin as rough wood that He desires to transform into gold. Tuning us requires certain experiences that will stretch our faith, our frame, and our very life. Sainthood springs out of suffering. If we can stand the strain of this intense process, we will come forth as gold-as a sweet-smelling offering to our Maker.

“When we are in the midst of these times, it feels like fire. It is painful to be stretched beyond our perceived limits, but the Lord knows this is necessary for us to become an instrument that can play a beautiful song that others will seek after.”

It seems that God uses our greatest losses to profoundly fine tune our sound boards through which His music is most resplendent. Our challenge is to yield to the Maker and trust Him through each stretching time. Like the Psalmist, we can cry “ouch,” yet at the same time recognize that our loving Abba Papa never loses touch with us and promises to work everything to good for those who love Him and are endeavoring to be obedient. Even the most painful situation!