“In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.”

2 Timothy 2:20-21

In verses 20 and 21, Paul urges Timothy to be the kind of person Christ could use for his noblest purposes. For this he uses the examples of vessels in a large house, of different kinds and materials for different purposes. Paul gives five characteristics of godly vessels, which we can apply to us as God’s leaders.

First, we must be clean: a dirty vessel is no good. The godly person must first be sanctified by accepting Jesus and his salvation. Second, the vessel must be an instrument for special purposes. This means being available for the Lord to use. Are you available today? Third, the vessel must be made holy. In other words, a Christian must be separated for God’s ministry, like the vessels in the temple. Fourth, a vessel must be useful to the Master. A broken vessel cannot hold wine. To be useful you must also be ready to train yourself for the job as God leads – and keep learning. Finally, a vessel must be prepared to do any good work. We cannot lay down conditions to God – we must be ready to go anywhere and do anything he wants. Paul told Timothy be ready to ‘preach … in season and out of season.’ Are you ready?

CLOSING PRAYER

Mighty God, it is my heart’s desire to serve you. If there are things in my life that dishonor you, show me and convict me of my need for repentance. Let nothing stand in the way of my being a vessel worthy for honorable use.

(Edited from Encounter with God)