7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. -2 Corinthians 4:5-7, 16-18
When we consider what fixed conduits do (like a water pipe or air duct), we notice that they are created and then put into use. The manufacturer forms and shapes the conduit. The builder sets and seals it in place and tests his work to see that it is good (not leaking; that it's positioned correctly, etc.). If all is well, the conduit is put into use to carry whatever it is intended to carry. It performs its purpose.
Like fixed conduits, flexible conduits are also created and then put into use. Flexible conduits, like hoses, are transportable, may be rolled up, and are useful in a variety of places or circumstances.
A conduit does not have the authority to select when, where, or how it will be used. Those decisions are up to the installer or worker who utilizes the conduit. The conduit only exists to fulfill its purpose- to transfer something from its source to its intended destination.
When a conduit becomes restricted or clogged, work must be done to reopen the passage way. If a restricted conduit is neglected, it loses its ability to achieve its purpose fully, and often times may become useless or even harmful! We see this commonly with heart valves, kinked water hoses, or chimneys.
However, unlike inanimate conduits, Jesus gives us, and lets us control, a valve called free will. Free will gives us the ability to control how much or little of His Spirit flows within and through us at any given moment. We can hold the valve open by being watchful and in constant communication and worship with Him. We also can close the valve or become clogged by taking our hearts, minds, and eyes off of Him and become fixated on earthly things (news, entertainment, self-gratifying objectives, and more).
As we walk more and more closely with Him (spending quality quiet time reading and meditating on the Word, and worshiping Him in prayer of all kinds), we find it becomes uncomfortable to manipulate that valve away from being fully open all of the time. Then, as we cultivate an ongoing heart of worship, prayer, listening, and obedience, we begin to more easily see God's activity all around us!
It's good to always check the position of the valve! Is there anything clogging you as a conduit for the Lord? Is He able to speak or do anything through you He desires this moment? What plans do you have for later today? If He desires to move and use you differently than what you've planned, are you willing to postpone or change your plans to accomplish His will in your life or in others as He chooses?
Lord, I take credit for nothing of my own. You first loved me, and by doing so, you drew me to yourself. As your child, I desire to glorify you as you glorify your Father in all things. Thank you for choosing and installing me as a conduit to fulfill your Great Commission and more! Continue to shape, direct, and fill me by your Word and Holy Spirit. Like you, I desire many more to come to saving faith in you alone. Use, move, shape, and direct me the way(s) you desire. You are my Source. I am your vessel. Be magnified in me this day and in each to come. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Comments