The Potter's Hands

Photo of Potter's Hands by Nishant Kulkarnie on Unsplash

Recently, I watched a potter take a large lump of clay and hand build it into four unique items. As he worked his wheel, each time he began a new project, he wet the clay. Then he pulled the clay up and pressed it down several times before he formed the pieces.

My friend explained that when the clay sits for a while, the molecules align in a way that makes the vessel weak if thrown immediately. Instead, the potter has to push and pull the clay to mix the molecules so they strengthen. Without the tension, the vessels could easily crack in the kiln.
Likewise, God knows we need some stress to build resilience. He doesn’t allow hardship to beat us down. Instead, He realigns our priorities so they don’t break under fire. James 1:2-4 says, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (NKJV).

The trials of our lives allow us to exercise our faith. When we don’t exercise our muscles, they atrophy. The same truth holds with our faith; we have to use it or it fades. God wants us trust Him completely as vessel ready for His service.

I also enjoyed watching the potter make four distinct things from the same lump of clay. First, he formed a little vase with frills around the edges. Next, he formed a candle stick, also ruffled. The third item was a plate. The last item was hard to identify initially. Only a small amount of clay remained, and he formed a small jug with a slot at the top. Apparently, street vendors used these banks to collect change.

I wonder what the potter thought as each item formed. He knew exactly what each item would be as he worked. The same way, our Heavenly Father forms us as clay in His hands. Isaiah 64:8 says, “But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand” (NKJV). The Lord who made us in His hands, knows the best way to shape our lives.

Sometimes, I argue with my Maker. I’ve complained to God when things haven’t happened in the timing or way that I wanted. Romans 9:20-21 says, “But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, “Why have you made me like this?” Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?” (NKJV)

God has different purposes for different people. The small vase wouldn’t be useful as a candlestick. Each item has its own purpose. God designs some to hold flowers and others to hold candles. Both bring joy to others, but in unique ways. The Lord’s design for our lives is best because He knows how to use us best. May the lean into the good works He designed us to do so our lives honor Him daily.

• Have you ever compared yourself to someone else? How does remembering that God fashioned us by hand for His purposes help you enjoy your present circumstances?