This “Parable of the Pencil” has a history as a children’s sermon. When it is told, each child is encouraged to think about the story’s message every time they pick up a pencil.

Its wisdom is priceless, and it applies to people of all ages!

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The Pencil Maker took each pencil aside, just before putting it into a box. “There are five things you need to know before I send you into the world,” he told each one. “Always remember them and never forget, and you will become the best pencil you can be.”

1.  You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in someone’s hand.

2.  You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you’ll need it to become a better pencil.

3.  You will be able to correct any mistakes you will make.

4.  The most important part of you will always be what’s on the inside.

5.  On every surface on which you are used, you must leave your mark. No matter what the condition, you must continue to write.

Each pencil understood and promised to remember, and went into the box with a genuine sense of purpose in its heart.

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Now, replace the pencil with you as an individual. Always remember the advice and never forget it; and you, too, will become the best person you can be.

1. You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in God’s hand. You must also allow other human beings to access the many gifts and talents you possess.

2. You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time by going through various problems. You’ll need each sharpening to make you a stronger person.

3.  You will be able to correct some of the mistakes you make. Be wise and grow through them.

3.  The most important part of you will always be what’s on the inside.

4.  On every surface on which you walk, you must leave your mark. No matter what the situation, you must continue to serve God in everything you do—make Him visible in this world.

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GOD HAS GIVEN ALL OF US GREAT PURPOSE!

If we understand the message of the Pencil Maker and remember these things, we will live with great purpose in our hearts and have a meaningful day-to-day relationship with our Maker.

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105 NLT

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.  Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

For everything comes from Him and exists by His power and is intended for His glory. All glory to Him forever! Amen. Romans 11:36 NLT

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If you liked this story and would like a copy of either of my books,
they are available on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle format:

If you have a story or testimony that you think might bless others,
I invite you to send it by email to me (Kenneth Kersey) at godsotherways@me.com.

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