“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10-11
Life has a way of playing games on us sometimes. When we are living out our existence the way most others do, we overlook our individuality. Furthermore, as children of God, we fail to recognize that we always have something to offer others.
Youth, including small children, struggle with thinking that they are too young to do anything for the Lord. Middle-aged people believe they are too busy to work for God’s kingdom. Finally, those who are in their later years in life feel that their time of usefulness is over and that they can no longer offer anything valuable to others.
Although our minds and emotions may try to convince us otherwise, the Word of God is full of the knowledge of our Lord that proves differently.
Both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible share numerous stories of the miraculous things of God coming to pass because of the faith and actions of men, women, boys, and girls. Actions that impacted the lives of others are also recorded. The Word has made it clear that age plays no part in what God is able to do with a willing heart and a heart that has faith.
We must always remember that God’s ways are higher than man’s ways, and the ways of the world around us do not control the mind or power of God.
Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, was healed of leprosy because of a little girl whose faith encouraged him. (2 Kings 5:1-14) A young boy who was in the midst of a multitude willingly gave his lunch to the disciples of Jesus, who then caused the meal to multiply enough to feed thousands of people. (John 6:5-13) Age was no hindrance.
Sarah gave birth to a son when she was elderly. (Genesis 18:9-15, 21:1-3) Her elderly status did not stop God from using her and giving her a miracle.
There are many other scriptures that share stories of people who come from all different backgrounds and all different ages. What we see as an obstacle or reason why we are unable to do something for the Lord is no match to His will, His desires, and His ability to make things happen. God wants our willingness and faith and in return will show us miracles and greatness, making the seemingly impossible happen for us. There is no restriction on age, and our lacking in ability can be made up through the provision of God being used through our availability.
Our own bank account may be very small but contributing what we can to the Lord’s work can explode with increased finances when we do our part and act in faith for His worthy causes.
We can see our struggling neighbor become encouraged and uplifted when we help with a meal and share compassionate words during a difficult time.
Our physical bodies may be too small or too frail to do much physically for others, but our sincere prayers and faith for their needs being met can change the course of the lives who needed their names lifted to God.
We must never worry or feel discouraged about our usefulness in the hands of God. When we are willing, He is able.
What can we do for our Lord today?
