Clay on the Potter’s wheel

“But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.” - Isaiah 64v8

What does a lump of clay do? Has it the power to jump on the potter’s wheel and shape itself into a thing of beauty? Can a lump of clay turn into a fine, useful, and beautiful utensil?

These are silly questions. A lump of clay has no power of its own and Isaiah here returns to an illustration he used earlier in the book. The picture is simple – God is the Master Potter and we are clay on His wheel. As such He has absolute power to do with us as He will.

When clay is being shaped it goes through a lot. Clay in shaped, beaten, punched, and kneaded. If clay had feelings it certainly would not enjoy this process. It would hurt and would not be nice! Clay is also tenderly shaped and moulded to the Master’s purpose. He is indeed moulding a masterpiece, a thing of great beauty. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus.
The moulding and shaping may not always be comfortable, but it always for our best and for His purpose and glory. Lets accept His moulding and shaping with great joy!