2 Corinthians 4:7b – We ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. (NLT)

The last of the green grapes had been in the refrigerator for at least two weeks. I decided that it was time to eat them up or throw them out — something that I am loathe to do — and I scolded myself for not enjoying them sooner. Taking them out of the bag, I rinsed them in the sink and laid them on some paper towelling to sort through the bunch. The green globes pitted by bad spots, wrinkles, or splits, along with the definitely spongy, soft ones were systematically discarded. What was left, which I deemed worthy, became part of my breakfast that morning.

This process of sorting through the fruit and discarding those not worthy reminded me of an important truth concerning God: God discards none of His people. No matter how old and wrinkled we are or how fractured and split by life's occurrences, no matter how weak and ravaged by illness, or how our minds have become impaired, we are still loved, valued, and of use to God for the glory of His kingdom.

In fact, God delights in using the imperfect. The apostle Paul revealed this when he wrote these words of truth to the church in Corinth:

1 Corinthians 1:26-29 – Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world's eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God. (NLT)

Today, you might be feeling like those poor old grapes that I discarded: a bit worn and wrinkled, tired or useless, foolish or powerless, sick or discouraged, unemployed or poor. If so, choose to take your eyes off of your own circumstances and focus on God's truth. He loves you. He will never discard you. He still has a purpose for you in His kingdom, a purpose which He is able to bring to fruition as you abide in the true vine, Jesus Christ, Who has promised, "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit." (John 15:5a NLT)

Prayer: Father God, thank You that You have a plan and a purpose for all of Your people, no matter what our circumstances may be. Help each of us to remember this truth and always to choose to remain in the true vine, Jesus Christ, that we may always continue to bear much fruit for the kingdom. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.