If we are sincerely following the Lord each day then we will become aware of the difference between God's ways and our ways. Since God is so different from us in his outlook, understanding and desire as we draw closer to God we must experience the purification that is necessary as we "adjust" to seeing things the way God sees them. Often times we view purification as punishment but what purification really is, is the fire of God's love. God desires to transform us from the inside out and for that to happen we must surrender to these flames of love. In silent prayer we experience this purification most intensely because silence gradually detaches us from our illusions and fears and leads us into the tranquil waters of God's presence.