C. H. V. Bogatzky's Daily Devotions. A Golden Treasury for the People of God Whose Treasure Is In Heaven, January 3. GospelWeb.net

The Third of January

THOU ART OUR FATHER --- Isaiah 64:8

"But now, O Lord, thou art our Father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand." --- Isaiah 64:8.

Being only clay in thy hands, O Lord, as I must not, so I would not, resist thy workings by any means: and I pray and hope thou wilt prepare and perfect me for a meet vessel of grace, in spite of a thousand hinderances.

No work of thine ever comes short of its intended perfection: for who can stay thy hand? It is thy own saying, "I will work, and who shall let it?" --- Isaiah 43:13.

An artist delights in his own workmanship, and would not leave one single flaw or defect in it designedly. Philippians 1:6. Oh, then, look upon me too, thou wise Creator!-- see how flesh and blood disorder my poor soul, and deliver me from all that may endanger my spiritual life.

Knowing thou canst do no less than a human artist, who is ever ready, and exerts all his skill to mend and perfect his work, I trust that thou wilt not always suffer these impediments to hinder and disgrace thy work.

Nay, such is thy wisdom and power, that out of darkness thou canst bring light; out of sickness, health; and though I am now destitute of strength and life, yet I believe thy work will be finished at last, and glorify the name of its Maker. 1 Peter 5:10.

Finish, Lord, thy new creation;
Pure in heart, oh, let us be;
See at length they great salvation,
Perfectly restored by thee.