Reflections
MARKETPLACE DEVOTIONAL
By Charles Spurgeon
"These were the potters and those who dwell at Netaim and Gederah (the place of plants and hedges); there they dwelt with the king for His work" — 1 Chronicles 4:23 (NKJV)
Pottery making and gardening were not prestigious trades, but the king needed potters. Therefore the potters were in royal service, even if their medium was only clay.
You may be engaged in the most menial part of the Lord’s work, but it is a great privilege to do anything for the king. Stick to your calling, and know that "though you lie down among the sheepfolds [NIV "campfires" or saddlebags], you will be like the wings of a dove covered with silver and her feathers with yellow gold." (Psalm 68:13 NKJV.)
The text tells about those who cultivated plants and hedges. It was backbreaking work. The laborers may have wanted to live in the city with its life, society, and culture. But they stayed in the country because they were doing the kings work. The place where we live is fixed and we are not to leave on a whim or impulse. We must serve the Lord where we are by being a blessing to those around us.
Those potters and gardeners had a royal commission, for they dwelt "with the king," though they were among the hedges, plants, and clay.
No lawful place or lowly task can keep us from the communion with our divine Lord. Even if you visit or work in the slums or jails, the King goes with you. In all works of faith, count on Jesus’ fellowship. When you are in His work, you can count on having His smile.
You unknown workers who labor for your Lord among the dirt and wretchedness of the lowest of the low, be of good cheer. Jewels have been found in rubbish piles. Clay pots have been filled with heavenly treasure. Weeds have been transformed into precious flowers.
Live with the King to do His work, and when He writes His chronicles, your name will be lovingly recorded.
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