Becoming Tried and True (The mindset for purging yourself)
In a world of fleeting trends, the human spirit seeks lasting reliability – the tried and true. Paul’s words to Timothy offer profound insight: “If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.” (2 Timothy 2:21). This verse unveils that being truly “tried and true” in God’s eyes isn't about perfection, but deliberate purging and preparation. Paul emphasizes purging oneself “from these” – the ignoble, false teachings and deviations from truth. Becoming a vessel of honor requires actively removing defilements that hinder our usefulness to God, demanding conscious effort and integrity. This purging leads to becoming a “vessel unto honour,” like a cleansed artifact restored for purpose. When purified, we become instruments God uses with dignity, reflecting His glory. The prepared vessel is also “sanctified,” set apart for God’s holy purpose, a continuous yielding to His tra...