The buds and the branches were all of one piece with the lampstand, hammered out of pure gold. Exodus 37:22
I've done many things, but I've never worked with gold before. The idea that one can take many pieces of gold and literally form them into one piece by hammering them is fascinating to me.
My medium is clay. With a little water and the right amount of pressure, beautiful artwork can result. Clay is easy to mold. I've always enjoyed the analogy of God as the Potter. To have Him place His hands on me to make me into a vessel of His choosing - how wonderful it is.
But I'm not so sure about Him as Goldsmith. It takes hours or hammering. That seems a bit uncomfortable to me. The idea, though, of God as Goldsmith is probably the most appropriate one. How much more work it takes to pound me into shape!
Lord, I long to be one with You. I know I should willingly say: do what it takes... if it is the hammer I require, then do what You must.
Couldn't You just speak me into shape?