A clay pot is shaped and refined by the Potter’s hand, set upon the wheel He spins. His movements gently guiding the clay into the formation He thinks best suits this container. For each is created with a particular use in mind, the design He had imagined from its original inception, the point when He brought all things to be. So as He sets about His work there is a smoothing effect which happens with all of the rough areas being honed, giving a polished look to the exterior making it appear to be flawless, for the mixture of motion and water have been able to cover every imperfection.
Though the vessel may seem hollow, the shape it holds was intentionally molded to bear the likeness of its Creator. With firm hands, the pot is crafted, turned and examined by the keen eye of the Master, the chief artist who has the perfect understanding of where and when to apply the needed pressure; the One who can sense, through His finger’s touch the more fragile areas held in the vessel.
Yet, He has no apprehensions of causing damage for He trusts in Himself completely and the transformational process He uses in fashioning an exquisite container. Yet, even in those weakened places which would collapse if this vessel was handled by another, to this fine Craftsman, those thinner areas can be re-formed, leaving only a strengthened piece, one which He proudly displays by setting each vessel in a prominent position, allowing others to see the exceptional quality of workmanship He produces.
So none should become disenchanted when the process of shaping seems more intensive, where the pressure applied in a certain area inside begins triggering unhealthy responses, for this is because the lower view of their circumstances has been set as the focus, and the idea of standing in faith completely left out.
But how can anyone hope of becoming a sturdy vessel unless I take them through this process of molding? It’s in those times, where the uneven areas are restructured, and anything found foreign is removed so that the finished product is able to hold its shape without any apparent defect.
My longing is not about uniformity, for My interests lie much deeper, going beyond the exterior. My attention is directed on the very core of each container for this is where My handiwork shines at its brightest, with the base of each vessel having been fortified in the proper amount of good material. Then, once each is thrown on the wheel of proving, the modified form will not crumble through adversity nor sustain cracks when affliction is present. For when each piece of clay was first put into My loving hands I ensured it began with the correct measure of faith so that as it was turned, the shape it retained would remain unscathed.
At times My methods may seem unconventional, and for the one being cast, a bit uncomfortable. But what should be remembered during these times is that all of My efforts originate from the sole place of affection, with no unkindness leveled at any. Though what I do may feel rather unpleasant, it is through these moments of stretching, where what was initially laid as a vessel’s foundation, is pulled up and established, giving it the proportions of volume. Then, as the impurities each container carries are removed, an ideal opening is left, one which, as the vessel is turned again and again, becomes wider and more expansive providing the superb dwelling place for My presence.
“But now, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” Isaiah 64:8