Think for a moment about Paul’s life before his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. What a dramatic difference from what Paul’s life looks like as an apostle of Jesus! If we look at Bible heroes in general, we see how unprepared they were on their own.
God always equips those he calls. There is no greater honor than to be used by God for his purposes. Can you think of some examples in the Bible? The pages of Scripture are full of times we see God using imperfect people for the sake of his mission.
Here are some applicable cases that come to mind for me in addition to Paul. Abraham and Sarah were too old to be parents, and yet God told Abraham he would be the father of many nations. Joseph was abused and left for dead, and yet God used him to save the nation of Israel from starvation. Gideon was afraid because he believed he was weak coming from a humble family, yet God used him to free Israel from their oppression. David was an adulterer and murderer, yet he is known to have a heart for God and was blessed with countless victories in battle. I could go on.
How do we respond when God uses us? Paul, for one, overflows with gratitude. “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him,” despite being ruthless to the early Christian movement at first. When we see how God used Paul, it gives us hope. Seeing Paul’s heart of gratitude is a very good reminder for us.
When God determines he wants to use you, it doesn’t matter what your past looks like. God uses those very same weaknesses to make you attractive to others with the same issues. When people see how God has turned your life around, those who are struggling start to believe that they, too, can overcome. The victory belongs to Christ! It is in our weakness that God’s power is revealed. Here’s a great memory verse, 2 Corinthians 12:9. Paul says, “Each time he [Jesus] said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”
Many of us find ourselves walking around in denial about what we believe. Our faith is continuously being tested. It’s like we’ve been “fire hose” doused with messages of the world, contrary to the loving truth of the gospel. How do you stand against those messages trying to knock you off course?
Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” To me, that speaks to the way God will equip us for our mission. When our mission aligns with the will of God, his purpose becomes clear.
Have you ever asked God to use you? Being a servant of God can be as simple as sharing the testimony of how your life was before Jesus and now after. This news of divine love and grace is too great to keep to ourselves. “Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life.” God’s love is for all. How will God be using you today?
Let’s pray. Forgive me, Lord, for feeling inadequate to speak your truth. I believe now that you will equip me when the time is right. Make it clear to me when that is and help me to open my mouth and share with others. I look forward to each opportunity to be your servant. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
