Taking Shape - Not For Sale
In the grand tapestry of life, we are each a unique piece of clay molded and shaped by the Master Potter, God Himself. This imagery, found throughout the Word of God, paints a vivid picture of our relationship with the divine. As clay in His hands, we are not merely passive recipients but active participants in the process of becoming.
The Potter's Wheel: A Symbol of Life's Challenges
The potter's wheel, with its spinning motion and the artist's guiding hands, represents the challenges and circumstances that shape our lives. Just as the clay is molded and refined, so too are we shaped by the trials and tribulations we face. These experiences, though often difficult, are essential in forming us into the people God intends us to be.
Three Clay Pots: Individual, Local Church, Global Church
God is shaping us not only as individuals but also as part of a larger community. We are part of three interconnected clay pots: the individual (family), the local church, and the global church. Each plays a vital role in our spiritual growth and development.
Why is He Shaping Us?
God has created us for a divine purpose. He is shaping us to be like Jesus, to reflect His image in our lives. This transformation is a lifelong process, fueled by the Holy Spirit and guided by God's Word.
The Holy Spirit: The DNA of the Clay
The Holy Spirit is the DNA of the clay, the inner force that gives us life and purpose. The fruit of the Spirit, qualities such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, shape our character and define who we are.
Sanctification: The Security of the Clay
Sanctification is the process of becoming holy, set apart for God's purposes. It is the security of the clay, the assurance that we are being transformed and made more like Jesus.
What's Inside is the Value of the Clay
The value of the clay lies not in its outward appearance but in its inner worth. We are vessels of honor, living sacrifices, and a royal priesthood. Our true value is found in our relationship with God and our purpose in His kingdom.
Not For Sale
We are not clay pots on a shelf, waiting to be sold to the highest bidder. We are not for sale to the world. We are sold out for Jesus. We are called to preach the gospel, to be the hands and feet of Jesus, to love, to minister, to reach the lost, and to be a blessing to our community.
A Modern-Day Jeremiah
We are also called to sound the warning, the alarm, like the prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah, known as the "Weeping Prophet," was a messenger of judgment to a wayward nation. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance.
The Potter's Hand
As we face the challenges of life, let us remember that we are in the hands of a loving and sovereign God. He is shaping us according to His perfect plan. Like Jeremiah, we may face opposition and rejection, but we must remain faithful to our calling.
A Hopeful Future
Even in the midst of trials, we can find hope. God is restoring His people, just as He restored Israel after their exile. He is shaping us for a future filled with purpose and joy.
Let us embrace our role as clay in the Potter's hands, trusting in His love and wisdom. May we be vessels of honor, sold out for Jesus, and ready to proclaim His message to a lost world.