“Deep in the center of the earth, a diamond is formed. Though many will admire its beauty and usefulness, when its formation is complete, none views the process by which it is formed. It is hidden, unseen, in the darkness.  So is the work of God in the heart of man.”  -Diane Dew
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a Merchant looking for fine pearls. When He found one of great value, He went away and sold everything He had and bought it.” Matthew 13:45-46 (NIV)
You are a treasure belonging to God.  He took great care in your design.  Just as every snowflake, pearl, and diamond is unique, so are you!  However, it takes pressure to turn a lump of coal into a diamond or a grain of sand into a pearl. 
Intense pressure causes great suffering and turmoil. The transformation of our spirits, as we are sanctified, must endure pressures just as a grain of sand or a diamond in the rough must experience.  In the end, we will be the spiritual diamond or pearl our Lord desires.  However, before the Lord can press and transform us into the gem He has envisioned, we must lay down our wills and submit to Him.
When you are undergoing the incredible but often-painful process of transformation, you will find comfort within the pages of God’s Word. People, even with good intentions, can leave you unfulfilled and empty in their sincere attempts to encourage you.  Thankfully, the Bible is full of every encouragement and hope you will ever need.  The promises of God are many and ought to be read during times of weakness and doubt, struggle and hardship.
“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”  John 17:17 (NKJV)
We are told that the Devil is a prowling lion. He watches and waits for opportunities to pounce and devour. In order to gain spiritual ground, he won’t hesitate to act in our moments of grief, confusion, or pain.  So, beware his attempts to discourage you during such trying times of pressure and stress! We do fight a spiritual battle every day and we would be foolish to think otherwise.
This hungry lion knows where to attack and so he will set out to rob us of hope. He knows the weak spots of every believer and looks for unprotected or damaged areas in our spiritual armor.  Therefore, let us keep our spiritual sword sharp, which is of course the living Word of God.  Ready yourself for battle for Satan is not compassionate and will show no mercy or grace. In order to gain spiritual ground, he won’t hesitate to attack when we are at our weakest. 
No soul, pearl, or diamond will remain in the dark ocean or the pitch-black earth forever.  Something will come along to propel it to the surface.  You will be discovered, admired, loved, and treasured by the ones who find you.  The Almighty God already knows about your beauty.  I am speaking about those around you who finally discover your value, as you live out His purpose in your life.
You are the pearl in Matthew 13:45-46.  God is the Merchant.  When finding you, He sees your value and sells everything He has in order to purchase you.  Jesus purchased you with is blood.  You are His treasure.  Think about your value and your cost to God.  With this in mind, will you now stand up and endure the sanctification process of your heavenly Father?
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NKJV)
“Submit to God and be at peace with Him; in this way prosperity will come to you.” Job 22:21 (NIV)