But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. [21] If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

2 Timothy 2:20-21

It’s been said that every person longs for two things—relationship and impact. We were designed to connect with God and others; we also were designed to make a difference. No wonder we want to do something lasting and significant with our lives.

The promise above weaves together these two longings. It tells us that if we are relating rightly to God, then he will use us to do important things in this world.

Reflect on your own life. Is God using you? If not, it might be because of disobedience. Would you knowingly drink out of a dirty glass? Neither will God choose to use a believer who is harboring unconfessed sin in his or her heart.

Admitting our sin and thanking God for his forgiveness (see 1 John 1:9) is the way we find ongoing cleansing. That’s the necessary first step for becoming a powerful utensil in the hands of God.

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME:

• I want to use you.

• If you are spiritually pure, I will use you for my purposes.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

You want to use me for your purposes God—to do big things. Thank you for allowing me to participate in your eternal plan. Only if I am clean will you choose to work through me. Show me any failures or wrong choices that I need to see, admit and turn from. I want to be clean. I want to be used by you. Amen.