God Works In Mud

Read: Genesis 2:1-7
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In a 1950's novel, there is a scene in which in which four village men confess their sins to one another. One of the men, Michelis, cries out, "How can God let us live on the earth? Why doesn't He kill us to purify creation?" "Because, Michelis," one of the men answered, "God is a potter; He works in mud."

This is literally what the Lord did in Genesis. The sovereign Creator formed and shaped humanity by unique design. This process involved fashioning a man from the dust of the ground. The word formed in Genesis 2:7 describes the work of an artist. Like a potter, molding and fashioning mud into a pot or some other earthen vessel, so the Lord God formed humanity from clay.

God's work with dust and mud continued by breathing into man the breath of life, changing his form into a living soul. This made man a spiritual being, with a capacity to serve and fellowship with the Lord.

After Adam and Eve sinned, God continued working in and with mud, sending His Son Jesus to die for humanity and then regenerating those who receive Him so that we can enjoy fellowship with Him. In gratitude, let's use our hands to do good works for His glory.
-Marvin Williams

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God is the only One who can make the dirty clean.

Humble Valor

Read: Philippians 2:19-30
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A report by the Chicago Tribune said: "Scores of Americans, from clergymen to lawyers to CEOs, are claiming medals of valor they never earned." Fabrication of war records and bogus claims of bravery are more widespread than imagined. One man, who falsely claimed a Navy Cross, later felt shame and said that real heroes rarely talk about what they've done.

Heroism is marked by an unselfish risking of life for the benefit of another. In Philippians, Paul commends two of his colleagues as true heroes of the faith. Timothy's unselfishness and proven character gained Paul's praise as a true son who had served with him in the gospel. (2:22) And Paul described Epaphroditus as "my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier" (v.25) who risked his life for the work of Christ (v.30).

Paul told the believers in Philippi to "hold such men in esteem" (v.29). Honoring fellow believers for their unselfish service to God is a biblical mandate. It is not hero worship, but an attitude of respect for a life well lived.

Through a word of encouragement or a tangible expression of appreciation, who can you honor today for their humble valor in serving the Lord and helping others in His name?

-David McCasland

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Faith in Christ can make extraordinary heroes out of ordinary people.