The Potter/clay metaphor does not eliminate human responsibility — diligence and trust in God operate simultaneously, not in opposition

Mike rejects a false dichotomy between human effort and divine sovereignty. Biblical model: maximum diligent effort + trusting God with results. He references Jesus's observation that the "sons of this world" are often more shrewd than Christians in practical matters (Luke 16:8). Christians should apply careful planning, financial stewardship, and strategic thinking to kingdom work — not as trust in self, but as faithful use of resources for God's glory.