Christians are called to “… be a vessel for honor,…useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:21 NASB
Scripture also tells us to offer our bodies as instruments and living sacrifices. Romans 12:1, 13
And as an example of instruments, in 1 Corinthians, Christians are referred to as God’s temple, God’s building and God’s field. In 2 Corinthians, we are called tabernacles, tents, jars of clay, earthen vessels, perishable containers; all containing great treasure. And the great treasure that resides within us as an instrument, of course, refers to the mystery of our faith, Christ in us, the hope of glory.
Another way of seeing ourselves as instruments that Jesus indwells is to think of the power tools in your home. When these tools are plugged into a power outlet they all use the same source of power, but each has a unique purpose. However, once unplugged, they all become the same – useless and incapable of accomplishing a purpose! It’s the power source that gives them their identities. Jesus is the power source, for all Christians. His death frees us from the penalty of sin. His life frees us from the power of sin. So stay plugged into the power source because apart from Him, we can do nothing.
Now when we abide with the Christ life within, do we lose our identity and become like a robot?
Absolutely not! God made only one of you. You have your own DNA, your own fingerprints, your own personality or soul which is composed of our mind, will and emotion. You are unique right down to the bone. When we were born again we obtained a new identity in Christ. We are now Christians, we are the body of Christ, and He is now our life, our strength and our power source. Isn’t it exciting to know that we are His vessels for His honor?
This Month’s Life Lesson:
So, when you see or hear statements like the following:
- Jesus died for us to give His life to us, to live His life through us.
- Christianity is not a self-improvement; it is a self-replacement.
- Jesus doesn’t make you better; Jesus is your better.
- You will never have a changed life until you experience the exchanged life.
This should bring it all together for you! Remember, as a new creation, your identity is in Christ. “For you died and your life is now hidden with Christ in God and when Christ, who is your life, appears, you will appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:3-4. You are now a vessel of honor for God. Praise God for such a miraculous plan for our lives! We get to be part of His body and He uses us as a tool, etc., to work His plan until He returns.
God’s Blessings to you in this summer season from the team
at Growing in Grace Ministries. We appreciate your continued prayer
and financial giving as we are dependent upon the
generosity of our friends.
To God be the glory!
Growing in Grace Ministries
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