"IN HIS TOOLBOX"

-The author wishes to hang out anonymously.

Sound corny? I thought so too when the phrase popped into my head, seemingly from out of nowhere. I have heard of 'In His Steps', and 'In His Service', but 'In His Toolbox?' I searched my mental slogan repository of mottos, phrases and bumper stickers but didn't find it among such notables as "An Army Of One", "Be All You Can Be", "Just Do It", W.W.J.D. and "I'm a Fool for Jesus, Whose Fool are You?". After all, what is a toolbox anyway? It's a collection of tools stored in a common container that allows the user to perform a variety of tasks. So who uses toolboxes? Mechanics, electricians, carpenters, plumbers, maintenance men and God all use toolboxes. In a culture that serves the god of 'self' 24/7, we like to think of ourselves as highly trained, highly motivated and successful individuals. Who among us thinks of himself as a hammer, a pair of pliers, or a pipe wrench that can be used of God?

I have to admit that in our current American culture the idea of being a useful tool in someone else's toolbox (even God's) certainly violates the philosophies touted by motivational speakers, success gurus and all the get rich quick promoters. Then again, I am not talking about 'worldly success'. I'm talking about being a tool in God's toolbox.

Think about it! God, our creator and author of our salvation, is the master mechanic. His desire is that no one would perish and although He could deliver the salvation message Himself, He has chosen common folk like us to be the tools in His service. The mechanic at the local automobile repair shop would not be able to fix your car without tools. God has made it so His Church cannot serve it's purposes of serving others and making disciples without you, His tools.

As Christians serving in the military, no matter where you are stationed, no matter what your occupation, there are those around you in need of The Savior. By God's design, YOU represent the Savior and Lord of the universe. The Master's desire is that we allow Him to mold us into useful tools: tools well maintained and cared for by His love; tools that are resting in the toolbox (His Sabbath Rest), ready and available for His use on every occasion. What an honor to be gently lifted out of God's toolbox and to be used to heal, nurture, encourage the Saints or even better yet, share the Good News with those around us and help them grow!

Why am I excited about being 'just a tool'? It is because of my gratitude to our Lord, knowing that He paid so dear a price for my sin. I was once separated from fellowship with Him and doomed to an eternity without Him. But now I am restored into fellowship with Him (He lives in me), and I look forward to spending eternity in His glorious presence! When I remember that My Savior and Lord, one day long ago, shed a drop of blood with my name on it, a crimson coin He used to purchase me out of the marketplace of sin how could I not serve Him? One of my favorite gospel songs puts it this way: