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“"An Imperfect Vessel"”

Thoughts for Today:

Biblical and historical records provide a rather interesting description of Paul's physical characteristics. Although we can't be absolutely certain of the accuracy, the following is a compilation of what Paul may have looked like. He was said to have legs that looked like a chicken (skinny and bowed out); he was short; had a rounded back, pot belly and large hooked nose; his eyes watered constantly and were near-sighted; he was bald and spoke in a high-pitched squeaky voice. Is it any wonder there were some in the Corinthian church who would judge him based on his physical appearance and say: "...in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing"?

It really isn't too surprising that God would choose to give Paul a weak physical vessel, to convey the power of His message. However, if it was up to me, I would have designed for Paul a large, physically imposing body -- tall with broad shoulders and strong arms and legs, handsome in a rugged way, and with a booming authoritative voice. Why? Because he would physically have to endure beatings, shipwrecks, and a whole host of other physical challenges -- not to mention verbally communicate the message of God's gift of grace to all of humanity. Paul's job was a big one and I would have given him a body to match -- yet God didn't. Why? Because the glory would be shifted to the greatness of Paul, rather that the majesty of God. When God uses imperfect vessels like Paul, we can truly catch a glimpse of how amazing He really is.

Questions to Ponder:

When God calls you to His work, do you look in the mirror and see your flaws? Do you disqualify yourself for the task before you've begun? God wants us just the way we are. He can use any of us, all He requires is a heart submitted to His will. Will your next answer be, "Yes, Lord"?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.