His Works, His Hands

But now, O LORD, You are our Father, we are the clay, and You our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8 (New American Standard Bible)

As a branch in God’s hands, I am pruned at appropriate times in necessary ways. As His sheep, I am shepherded and cared for. As clay upon His wheel and in His hands I am molded to His likings. I long for the results that come from His involvement in my life but often squirm during the process. This morning I am asking myself what the process has entailed.

It has entailed taking me out of comfort zones, removing significant individuals from my life, showing me the truth about His heart and character, showing me the dangers of living out of my emotions, correcting wrong steps I take, transforming my character and thoughts, exposing my weaknesses and wounds, teaching me to live according to truth rather than perceptions, redirecting my attention to what He is presently doing rather than what He has done in the past, instilling in me a teachable spirit in the midst of difficult lessons, and wiping away tears that fall when I don’t understand what He is doing or forget that He is doing all things out of love.

I am a recipient and example of His labor of love and that knowledge requires trust on my part. Trust that God knows what He is doing. Trust that He will accomplish that which He has determined to do. Trust that He will keep His word. Trust that He is able to do far more than I could imagine. Trust that my limitations do not limit Him. Trust that at no time does His love for me become merely toleration. Trust that I have not exhausted His supply of mercy, grace, forgiveness, and strength. Trust that He will eventually bring me to the point that I completely release all that I am still holding on to. Trust that His requirements of me are good, necessary, and beneficial.

He knows my personality and make up. My weaknesses and bents. My places of stubbornness. My potential. My fears and insecurities. With that knowledge He has not abandoned me, become exasperated by me, shamed me, or given up on me. His involvement in my life has not waned in the least. I marvel at the thought of that and it comes against all preconceived ideas I have had of myself and Him.

Father, show me where I still lack trust in You. Teach me to fix my eyes on You. Amen.

He Knows My Name - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXsiWoyjw60&feature=related

I welcome your questions and comments to any devotional thoughts. I am honored and delighted to share my journey with you and privileged to hear of yours.