We are stewards of a Message that is not ours. We are not masters of it, but it is to master us. We wield no great power, but rather bear witness to Another’s power. We are not professionals, but paupers rich in love and life.
We are clay pots- dirt baked hard;
We are sheep- even the shepherds are sheep;
We are vines- utterly dependent on the Root for life;
We are sinners, saved through a Message that is not ours;
We are not masters of it, but it is to master us…
The message is not our own;
The strength is not our own;
The ministry is not our own;
We are not our own;

Therefore:

There is no power in prayer, but power in God;
ALL praise belongs to God alone.
There is no power in the preacher, but power in the Gospel.
It is God’s power for salvation.
There is no power in the gifts, but power in the Spirit.
We are impotent- He is omnipotent.
There is no power in the Church, but power in the Head;
Severed from Christ, we are lifeless and lost.

There is no boasting, save in the One who
Made us;
Owns us;
Holds us;
Speaks for us;
Speaks through us;
Guides us;
Strengthens us;
Animates us;
Loves us.