Resistance can be a powerful force in our lives. It whispers doubt in our ears, reminding us of our past mistakes, making us question our worthiness, and instilling fear of the unknown. But in these moments of doubt and resistance, we must remember the profound truth found in Isaiah 64:8 – we are the clay, and God is the potter, shaping and forming us into something of great worth.

Shame is one of the voices of resistance. It tells us that our actions don’t match our beliefs, that we’re unworthy of the goodness that awaits us. It can consume us with the opinions of others, seeking their approval, and holding onto past failures and future fears. But we must recognize that shame seeks to distract us from the blessings God has in store. It knows that if it gets to us, we won’t fully receive what God intends for us.

However, we are not left to combat shame on our own. The grace of God, His supernatural ability to empower us beyond our own limitations, is sufficient for us. When shame weighs us down, we must grasp the hand of God’s grace and allow it to lift us beyond the punches of shame and resistance. We are not called to pull up our bootstraps alone, but to partner with God’s grace, which enables us to rise above our struggles and move forward.

Resistance often says, “No, you can’t.” It tries to convince us that we can’t become who Jesus says we are, that we can’t create something beautiful and new in our lives. Instead, it tempts us to put away our “paintbrush” and settle for less. But the truth is, we can. We can break free from the chains of resistance and embrace the hope found in Jesus.

Jesus has revealed to us through His word and personal relationship what life can be like in Him. It’s like having a paintbrush to create a beautiful canvas. However, resistance tells us we’re foolish, that it won’t last, and that we can’t achieve it. It pressures us to conform to worldly standards, but we have a choice – to resist resistance.

To overcome resistance and create the beautiful life God has in store, we must stay in the palm of the Eternal One. Just as Isaiah 64:8 reminds us that we are the clay and God is the potter, we must allow Him to shape and form us. We are His masterpiece, intricately designed to fulfill His purpose. Don’t let resistance hold you back. Instead, embrace the transforming power of God and let His grace lead you forward.