go_for_it2Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).

This is one of the first texts I memorized when I started studying the Bible. Back then I was young and did most of my Bible searching in the trusted and true King James Version; it reads a bit different but it means exactly the same. This admonition given by Paul served me like a candle in the dark. God had a task for me to do and He was shaping me up for it—in other words He was telling me through ancient, sacred words to “Go for it!” He didn’t say the process would be easy.

Anyone who is a Bible student soon discovers that though all Scripture may be quite fascinating to study, there are certain passages that you feel are written especially for you. The words prick through any tough exterior you may have and soften rebellion. It’s happened to me over and over again–and still this infusion into my being continues to happen. And I’ve found the effect is akin to being endowed with a portion of youth again—and the want to “Go for it!”

Master Potter

God puts us on the potter’s wheel, His hands shape us. He doesn’t need a jigger or any other kind of crockery machine to help Him. All he needs is for us—the clay—to be pliable for the shaping. The Word is the component needed to make us absorbent for the shaping. From there His work continues. Pottery making is an intricate process. Those who study under a Master Potter, probably feel their brains whirl like the potter’s wheel itself as they learn all the terminology used in the process of crockery creation. The process is one of equipping clay to be serviceable.

God wants us to be the finest finished product. When He stamps us with His unique signature mark, He desires us to be used to glorify His name. As He puts His potter’s mark upon us, He is making us ready to “Go for it!”

No matter what our age, young or old, we have a “Go for it!” responsibility. In fact, the surest way to keep us young is by serving. It’s interesting that when Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, he was addressing qualities that are needed for leadership. Thus a well-crafted vessel is a necessary part of service. When we take on the name of Christian, our destiny is to be God-breathed leaders in one way or another. Thus, the very Scripture itself becomes a part of the potter’s mark on us—the pottery.