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We live in a world that screams bigger is better; that size matters. But real power comes in small packages. David slew Goliath alone while two huge armies looked on. Jesus sent the disciples on their first short term missions trip in pairs. It took just one man, hanging from a tree and later resurrected, to change the world. Before you think you are too insignificant to make a difference; before you think your tools are inadequate or your location too obscure, remember, with God strength comes from smallness..
Have you ever looked at someone else and wished you could be like them? When we were young we had our heroes. Those we idolized as being bigger than life itself. As we grew older we realized they were just people, but our desire to be like others, to have what they have, to be able to do what they do never dies. Comparison is a lion waiting in the shadows to attack when we least expect it. Pastor and author Steven Furtick writes, “The reason we struggle with insecurity is because we compare our behind-the-scenes with everyone else’s highlight reel.” The only standard we need to measure up to is God’s standard and we will never do that outside of Christ. Don’t strive for the accolades of men. Rejoice in the fact that you are his masterpiece and he will strengthen you to be what he’s created you to be. Then do everything for HIS glory!
Why do you pray? Is it to fulfill some religious activity in hope the celestial Santa Claus will grant your wish, or is it because you simply want to connect with your Heavenly Daddy? Why do you give to the homeless guy on the corner? Is it to give you a feeling of pride knowing you helped someone less fortunate than you, or is it because as you gave the money you also prayed for his soul so that Jesus would be glorified. Why did you pay for the guys coffee in the drive through behind you? Was it so that they would think you are a nice person, or because as you did so you prayed for them? Why did you sing in Praise and Worship? Was it because you like to sing and looked that song or because as you reflected on the words you were drawn closer to Christ? Motives. It’s all about motives. Whether you succeed or fail isn’t as important as why you did it. The Father takes the time to search your heart to be sure your motives are pure and bring glory to his Son. Shouldn’t you do the same?
Timid Christians are the worlds friends. They don’t make waves. They buy into societies idea to live and let live. Angry Christians push others away from the Kingdom by placing demands on others and judging them according to their actions rather than on who created them. Powerful Christians can’t be denied for their love and integrity shows the character of God.
We’ve all been there. We purchase something and it’s defective. We return it because it has a warranty. But there are times when the warranty is worthless because it’s a “limited” warranty, meaning that in some situations the issue isn’t covered. God promises us many things, such as love, mercy, forgiveness and eternal life. His promises are not in any way, shape or form limited. He does what he says because of who he is, not because of who you are or what you’ve done. Take heart! Whatever you are going through will not remove you from God’s promises.
Mike Fisk & Built with Grace 