Played: 1283 | Download | Duration: 00:02:54

GOING FOR THE GOLD

In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble.
2 Timothy 2:20

Most of us have dishes for everyday use and dishes for special occasions. Listen: ‘In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble.’ Paul continues, ‘If you stay away from sin you will be like ‘dishes made of purest gold - the very best in the house ’Christ’ can use you for His highest purposes’ (2 Timothy 2:21). This isn’t about salvation; as a Christian you’re already in the house. No, it’s about cleaning up your act; otherwise you get to stay with the pot-scrubbers and dishcloths because God can’t use unclean vessels in positions of honor. If you’re a recovering clay pot who’s ready to ‘go for gold’ in order to be used for God’s highest purposes, start doing these things: (1) Edify yourself. Learn to build yourself up by praying in the Holy Spirit (see Jude 20); that’s a basic survival skill (2) Practice Godliness. You have to practice it because it doesn’t come naturally. Start by controlling your moods, praising when you want to complain, pursuing the right things, delighting yourself in God’s Word (3) Stay faithful. Job said, ‘‘when He has tested me, I shall come out like gold’ (Job 23:10). When you stay faithful, you emerge from trials stronger and wiser (4) Examine your motives: the Bible says, ‘the fire will test each man’s work’ (1 Corinthians 3:13). Look out! The right works done with the wrong motives will be burned up like wood, hay, and stubble. But gold withstands the fire! So today, ‘go for gold!’

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me, empower me, to do those things that clear the decks so that you can shape and mold my life. In Jesus’ Precious Name, Amen