I am not sure where this originates. I found it when looking for something else on an old back-up disk. The message spoke to me, and I share it with you in hopes that it will to you as well. I have added some Bible verses in the last part (in italics) and I pray this parable challenges you to let God use you today and always.
PARABLE OF THE PENCIL
The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside, just before putting him into the box. There are five things you need to know, he told the pencil, before I send you out into the world. Always remember them and never forget, and you will become the best pencil you can be.
One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in someone’s hand.
Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you’ll need it to become a better pencil.
Three: You will be able to correct mistakes you will make.
Four: The most important part of you will always be what’s inside.
Five: On every surface you are used, you must leave your mark. No matter what the condition, you must continue to write.
The pencil understood and promised to remember, and went into the box with purpose in its heart.
Now replacing the pencil with you, always remember them, never forget, and you will become the best person you can be.
One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in God’s hand.
But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” – Matthew 19:26
Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, by going through various problems, but you’ll need it to become a stronger person.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. – James 1:2-3
Three: You will be able to correct mistakes you might make or grow through them.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9
Four: The most important part of you will always be what’s on the inside.
For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. – Proverbs 23:7
Five: On every surface you walk, you must leave your mark. No matter what the situation, you must continue to serve God in everything.
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. – 1 Corinthians 15:58
By understanding and remembering, let us proceed with our life on this earth having a meaningful purpose in our heart and a relationship with God daily.
— Author Unknown