Embracing Our Ordinary for God's Extraordinary Work
Today, we delve back into the the idea of becoming a "Gospeler"—a bearer of the gospel. It's not just about receiving Jesus' grace but allowing it to flow through us to others. Let’s look at how God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.
The Call of Ordinary Fishermen
In Matthew 4:18-22, Jesus calls His first disciples—ordinary fishermen. Peter, Andrew, James, and John were not scholars or religious leaders; they were simple men doing their daily jobs. Did Jesus choose these men because they had some hidden potential that no one else could see? Perhaps. But what if it wasn’t what Jesus saw, but what he didn’t see that matters? What if God doesn't require or even desire extraordinary qualifications in his followers? What if he is more interested in willing, humble hearts who he can equip with his Spirit? After spending three years with Jesus, these four une Acts 4:13, Peter and John would stand firm against the opposition of some of the most powerful and brightest leaders in Jerusalem and as a result, people took note that these unschooled and ordinary men had been with Jesus.
God's Preference for the Ordinary
Paul wrote to the church in Corinth explaining that God chooses the foolish, weak, and lowly to shame the wise and strong (1 Cor 1:26-29). This ensures that no one can boast before Him. The ordinary nature of Jesus' disciples allowed God's power to shine through them, making it clear that their accomplishments were due to divine intervention, not human ability.
Later, in his second letter to the Corinthians, he would remind us that God's power is made perfect in weakness (2 Cor 12:9-10). When we acknowledge our limitations, we create space for God's strength to manifest. This counter-cultural message challenges us to boast in our weaknesses, knowing that they are opportunities for God's power to be revealed.
Embrace Your Ordinary
God's call to be a gospeler is not limited to pastors or missionaries. It's for everyone. Reflect on your life and recognize that your ordinary circumstances are precisely where God wants to work. Think of the ordinary things you can do and imagine how God could use them for building his kingdom. He looked to four fishermen and told them he would teach them to fish for people. Your job, neighborhood, and daily interactions are your mission field and God can use the ordinary in your life to make an extraordinary impact in eternity.
Questions for Reflection
1. Who is one person in your life (OneLife) who needs to hear about Jesus?
2. What ordinary aspects of your life can God use for His extraordinary purposes?
3. How can you overcome feelings of inadequacy and trust in God's strength and the Spirit he promises to all who follow Him?
Challenge for the Week
Identify one person in your life who doesn't know Jesus. Pray for an opportunity to share your story of faith with them this week. Remember, it's not about having all the answers but trusting that God will use your willingness to make an impact.