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Tools are essential to life. Most of us use them daily. Archaeological digs define entire civilizations through the tools they used. But regardless of the tool, there is no debating the importance of a tool being in good repair.
There are various reasons why tools lose their edge. If the edge comes in contact with something hard or meets opposition that it was not intended for, the sharpness will be lost. If it is used for the wrong purpose, it will be dulled or even broken. If there is continual use without continual care, the edge will wear. If the tool has been left to the elements and had no use at all, it will become corroded and useless.
The benefits of a sharpened tool are many. It will accomplish the task more quickly and easily than a dull one, and will do a more complete and accurate job.
These thoughts can also be applied to us as Christians. We are tools in the Master's hands, quality tools bought at great price. But we must be careful not to dull ourselves by running after the wrong purpose and refusing to be used by God in the way that He intends. We may run into obstacles and end up nicked (and sometimes bitter). Perhaps most commonly, we can be worn down by continual motion.
The Master has a great love for us and longs to keep us in good repair. However, unlike tools, we have a free will, a choice. Many times we refuse to submit to our Master's cleaning. We shrink from the grinding stone which would sharpen us, afraid of the pain. We get used to the rust and refuse to work on removing it. We avoid the oil of anointing, even though it is intended to make us more effective. We refuse ongoing care by neglecting to take time for prayer and meditation.
God can still work with dull tools. It just takes a lot more effort and time and often results in missed opportunities and "learning the hard way". Learning to submit to "regular maintenance" takes humility and discipline. But without it, we have no hope of being as "sharp" as the Master desires.
Like tools, we have been created with a purpose. Are we honed and ready for the task at hand?
Jill Arndt attends Community Fellowship Church in Newton, Man.
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