The Man God Uses

Title: THE MAN GOD USES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Timothy 2:20-21

"But in a great house, there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honour and some for dishonour. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honour, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work."

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 6:8, Jeremiah 18:1-6, 1 Samuel 16:7, Acts 9:15, 2 Chronicles 16:9

INTRODUCTION:

God is always looking for people to use in carrying out His divine purposes on earth. Throughout the Bible, God chose and used individuals who were willing, obedient, and yielded to Him. The qualities that make a person usable by God are not dependent on physical abilities or social status but on character, heart, and spiritual readiness. This study explores the attributes of the man or woman God chooses and uses to accomplish His will.

1. PURITY AND HOLINESS

God uses those who strive for holiness and purity, setting themselves apart for His purposes.

a) Cleansing from Sin:

A life free from intentional sin is essential for anyone who desires to be used by God (Psalm 24:3-4).

b) Commitment to Holiness:

Holiness involves living according to God’s standards and being set apart for His service (1 Peter 1:15-16).

c) Guarding the Heart:

Maintaining purity in thought, motives, and intentions is critical (Proverbs 4:23).

d) Separation from Worldliness:

God desires individuals who are not entangled in worldly pursuits but are focused on His kingdom (James 4:4).

e) Avoiding Compromise:

Choosing to stand firm in godly convictions even when it’s difficult (Daniel 1:8).

Biblical Example:

Joseph chose purity over pleasure when he resisted Potiphar’s wife, and God honoured him (Genesis 39:7-12).

2. HUMILITY AND BROKENNESS

The man God uses is one who is humble and fully surrendered to Him.

a) Recognising Dependence on God:

God uses those who rely on His strength rather than their own (John 15:5).

b) Willingness to Serve Others:

Humility is seen in a servant's heart, willing to put others first (Matthew 20:26-28).

c) Brokenness and Contriteness:

God values a broken and contrite spirit; He draws close to those who recognise their need for Him (Psalm 51:17).

d) Acknowledging Weakness:

God often uses people who recognise their limitations, allowing His power to be made perfect in their weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

e) Giving All Glory to God:

A humble servant always attributes success and achievements to God, not themselves (1 Corinthians 1:31).

Biblical Example:

Moses was known for his humility, which enabled him to lead the Israelites faithfully (Numbers 12:3).

3. FAITH AND OBEDIENCE

Faith and obedience are essential attributes for anyone God wants to use.

a) Willingness to Obey God’s Commandments:

God uses those who are quick to act upon His instructions, no matter the cost (1 Samuel 15:22).

b) Trusting in God’s Promises:

Strong faith is trusting God’s promises even when the outcome is uncertain (Hebrews 11:1).

c) Stepping Out in Faith:

Obedience often requires courage to act on what God has said, even without all the answers (Joshua 1:9).

d) Overcoming Doubts and Fears:

Those who trust in God can push past personal doubts to fulfil His calling (Isaiah 41:10).

e) Persevering through Challenges:

Faith and obedience carry us through trials, remaining committed to God’s purposes (James 1:2-4).

Biblical Example:

Abraham obeyed God and left his homeland by faith, becoming the father of many nations (Genesis 12:1-4).

4. SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE

God uses individuals who are disciplined in their spiritual lives, maintaining close fellowship with Him.

a) Consistent Prayer Life:

Prayer deepens our relationship with God, making us sensitive to His leading (Luke 18:1).

b) Regular Study of God’s Word:

Studying Scripture equips us for God’s work, providing wisdom and direction (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

c) Fasting and Self-Denial:

Fasting aligns our desires with God’s will, drawing us closer to Him (Matthew 6:16-18).

d) Worship and Praise:

Living a life of worship strengthens our connection with God and keeps our focus on Him (Psalm 95:6-7).

e) Fellowship with Other Believers:

Gathering with other believers fosters encouragement, accountability, and growth (Hebrews 10:25).

Biblical Example:

Daniel maintained his spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting, making him fit for God’s use in Babylon (Daniel 6:10).

5. AVAILABILITY AND WILLINGNESS

The man God uses is not necessarily the most skilled, but the one willing and available for His call.

a) Readiness to Go Where God Sends:

God uses those who say, “Here am I, send me” (Isaiah 6:8).

b) Flexibility and Adaptability:

Being willing to adjust our plans to follow God’s leading (Acts 16:6-10).

c) Willingness to Sacrifice:

Those used by God are willing to lay down personal desires for His purposes (Romans 12:1).

d) Eager to Do Good Works:

God’s servants are enthusiastic about opportunities to serve and bless others (Titus 2:14).