It's what the clay does in response to the work of the Potter that matters.Spiritless, lifeless clay cannot be uncooperative anymore than cooperative without the breath of God .
Clay that does not conform will be made hard or soft entirely at the discretion of Potter.
“I will have mercy on whom I have mercy,
and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” - Romans 9:14
In his rebellion Pharaoh was hardened to destruction.
In his rebellion Paul was softened to glory.
Had Paul been like Pharaoh he too would have been hardened in his rebellion.