Romans 8:29 says, “For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.” How does something get conformed? Through pressure.

I think of a wheel potter. Water is laboriously worked into the hard clay before it can be moldable. As the wheel is spinning, the potter applies intense pressure to center the clay in order to shape it. If it doesn’t get centered, the intended vessel will be uneven and collapse.

The Lord uses our trials to center us on Him. Once we are centered He is able to conform us to His image. I think of the words used in Hebrews 12:11. In the Amplified it says, “For the time being no discipline brings joy…but afterwards…(righteousness—in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thoughts, and action…”