Friday, June 19, 2009

Day 26

June 19
Mark 6:6b-13

I am writing today from the sunny state of Florida. My mom, sister, and I came down here to help my cousin’s church with their Vacation Bible School. My cousin did not have enough helpers, because many people she asked would not step up to the plate. A lot of people said, “Sure, I can help…but I don’t want to teach!” I think some of these people could have used this lesson. God does not call the equipped, He equips the called. You do not have to have amazing talents to minister to people; you just have to trust that God will provide what you need. Even Moses, one of God’s greatest servants, didn’t think he was capable of doing what God had called him to do. “Moses said to the Lord, ‘O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.’ The Lord said to him, ‘who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or make him blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.’” (Exodus 4:10-11 NIV) I am not the greatest speaker in the world. I am not the most amazing teacher that ever lived. But I was willing to do what God was calling me to, and 3 children in my group accepted Christ this week. That is what those people who said “I don’t want to teach” are missing out on… an amazing opportunity to be a part of God’s awesome work. Remember the words from a couple of days ago…don’t be afraid; just believe!

Principle: Jesus equips and instructs those He sends out to minister in His name.

Application:
1. What instructions has the Lord given me?
2. Am I trusting Him today that His provision is adequate?
3. How do I react to those who do not listen to me?

5 comments:

  1. I guess this would go with #2. This reminded me of a verse I use when I'm feeling overwhelmed with something I don't think I'm good enouph to do. Luke 10:19 "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." So I don't need to worry. God's given me everything I need. How cool is that?

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  2. What struck me in today’s reading was that Jesus sent them out “two by two” just as He had brought the animals into the ark. Talk about provisions! And how much fun it is to do God’s work with another Christian. Question #2 speaks to me also. And the Hymn “Trust and Obey” is playing loudly in my head! It always seems to come back to that same theme of obedience!

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  3. I don't want Jesus to me amazed at my lack of faith. I have been asked to coordinate the children's activities for the Brazil mission trip - stories, crafts, songs, games. Not knowing in what venue we will be teaching the children or how many we will have, I tend to stress in the planning. I am trusting God though to give me wisdom and provision for all of the children that He will bring to us. He knows how many there will be. And He will give just the right words to teach them so that they will understand.

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  4. I think this passage sums up what Sarah said, "God does not call the equip, He equips the called. He will provide all you need if you just have faith and believe. Remember it is not me working for Christ but, Christ working though me.

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  5. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! How much more effective would we be if we lived by that powerful truth every day!
    This has been a great week of VBS - and it has all been accomplished in the strength of Jesus, who equips and sends us out. Can't wait to do it again in my own church next month!

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