Steve Valler - Temptations of Christ-(#116-Elim)

In the Potter’s Hands: Surrender, Shaping, and the Will of God

Today’s podcast episode features a powerful and reflective conversation between Steve Valler and Reverend Ben Cooper, centered on the deeply symbolic and spiritually rich message of Jeremiah 18:1–12 and Romans 9:14–26. Together, they dive into what it truly means to be the clay in the hands of the Master Potter—yielded, shaped, and transformed for His divine purpose.

As the mics go live in this open and unscripted conversation, Steve and Ben explore themes of total surrender, spiritual formation, and the refining process every believer must go through. Drawing from the prophet Jeremiah’s vision of the potter working at the wheel, the discussion paints a vivid picture of God’s hands molding us—not just gently, but with intentional pressure that removes imperfections and prepares us for His use.

This episode is a deep dive into the sometimes painful, yet always purposeful, process of spiritual growth. The hosts talk about:

• What it means to be broken and remade
• Why the Potter must knead, press, and refine the clay
• The significance of yielding to God’s will in every season
• How trials, temptations, and even failures are used to mold us

They also touch on the temptations of Christ, highlighting how even Jesus—though perfect—submitted completely to the will of the Father. As followers of Christ, we’re invited into that same posture of obedience, trusting that God is shaping us for His glory.

“It’s not just about being used by God; it’s about being formed by Him first. The vessel cannot tell the Potter how to shape it.”

The conversation moves into the New Testament with Romans 9, where Paul discusses God's sovereign choice and the mystery of divine mercy and justice. These passages further emphasize that God’s process of shaping is not arbitrary—it’s part of a holy and loving plan to raise up vessels for noble use.

Listeners are encouraged to examine their own lives:

• Are you resisting the Potter’s hand?
• Do you recognize when God is refining you?
• Are you willing to surrender control and trust His process?

Whether you’re going through a season of pressure, feeling spiritually dry, or seeking clarity on God’s will, this episode offers profound biblical insight and gentle encouragement to let go, trust God, and allow Him to do the work only He can do.

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