August 18—Usefulness
The word for today is usefulness.
“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Cor. 7:1).
“And while they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them’” (Acts 13:2).
“And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper” (Rom. 1:28).
“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service” (1 Tim. 1:12).
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15).
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).
“Therefore, if a man cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work” (2 Tim. 2:21).
“I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none” (Ezek. 22:30).
Prayer: Lord, I find myself singing “Channels Only” this morning: “Emptied that Thou shouldest fill me, a clean vessel in Thy hand; with no pow’r but as Thou givest graciously with each command. Channels only, blessed Master, but with All Thy wondrous pow’r flowing thro’ us, Thou canst use us ev’ry day and ev’ry hour.”
See also: Isa. 6:5-8; Ps. 85:4; 1 Cor. 9:27; 1 Tim. 4:16;
Eph. 3:7-8; Gal. 1:15-16
