The word instrument has stuck, and it keeps coming up. Here are a couple of the most fitting definitions of the word, courtesy of dictionary.com.
~ a mechanical tool or implement, esp. one used for delicate or precision work: surgical instruments.
~ a contrivance or apparatus for producing musical sounds: a stringed instrument.
~a device for measuring the present value of a quantity under observation.
All of the above are excellent examples of different types of instruments; mechanical instruments, musical instruments, measuring instruments. Though all very different items, they all have one thing in common.
They can do nothing by themselves.
Our garage is filled with all sorts of tools. Woodworking tools, garden tools, an entire box of tools used for various things, all of which my husband uses in his role as Mr. Fix It. The tools don't fix it. Mr. Fix It, using the tools, fixes it.
We don't really have any musical instruments around this house. We love music and I, especially, would love to play an instrument, but I don't. So you see, it would be silly to have instruments in a house where they would just sit. Instruments don't make music, talented people who play instruments make music.
We do measure a lot of stuff around here, particularly in the kitchen. I have more measuring cups and spoons then should be permitted by law, and you know what? Not one of them can do a thing with out my help.
Something bigger, stronger and more clever has to use all of the above listed items in order for them to do what they're meant to do.
And so it is, when we are instruments in our Father's hands.
He wills us to breathe, you know.
The difference between me and the hand shovel? No difference.
The difference between me and the guitar? No difference.
The difference between me and measuring cup? No difference.
The shovel, guitar and measuring cup all need someone to pick it up and do with it what was meant to be done.
Uh-oh, I just thought of a difference.
The shovel, guitar and measuring cup are always willing to be used for what they were created for.
Hmmm..... Interesting.
The last definition has somewhat of a negative connotation to it, but for my purposes, it is the very best one.
~ a person used by another merely as a means to some private end; tool or dupe.
Our Creator made us for a purpose. By allowing Him to work through our surrendered lives, we become instruments of His love, grace, mercy, and kindness. When we allow him to do with us what was intended, we become Instruments of His Glory. Together we become and ever building symphony of beauty that has the potential to change this world.
Jesus said, "Apart from me, you can do nothing." John 15:5
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