While the world measures success in terms of winning and losing, the size of one’s bank account, and the titles after one’s name our Lord measures success very differently. Success in the eyes of God is measured in terms of faithfulness to the calling God has on one’s life and to our ability to be available when we are needed.
In the church the pastor usually gets the most attention and praises but the ordinary person in the pew can have just as important a role to play in bring souls to Christ and helping build up God’s kingdom. Winkie Pratney, New Zealand-born evangelist, gives us a good summary on who God uses when he said: “Those that God used in the past were just ordinary people with an extraordinary Master. They were not all champions of great faith, but little people who saw their own need, and put their small faith in a great God.”1
My friends, God is not looking for highly talented individuals with great oratory powers, but what He is looking for are people who are simply faithful to the Lord and always available when called upon to witness for Jesus, and serve all of humanity. Sadly, many Christians measure success in terms of results. For example, I have heard believers want to know how many people have you led to the Lord instead of asking the more important question: How many people have you shared the gospel with? For you see we are only responsible for being faithful to share Jesus with those we come in contact with, God is the one who convicts souls and opens their hearts to come to Christ. So, the first sign of a powerful ministry is are we faithful to doing God’s will and using whatever gifts and talents He gives us, to advance His kingdom and bring Him glory.
The second quality that God is looking for in His children is are we available. The needs around us are great. I have met some Christians who say, “I don’t have many talents, so how can I be used by God?” All believers can be great workers in serving others in so many ways that the list is endless. So, the question is: Are we willing to make ourselves available with our time, talents, and treasury. If you want a powerful ministry may I suggest the following: Spend one hour a day in praying for the needs of others. Sent one email or make one phone call a day to encourage someone. Drive someone to church who needs a ride. Why not get involved in a feeding the homeless ministry. Mentor a teenager. And how about visiting a shut-in from your church. The opportunities to serve others are always there to those of us who are available.
Our little faith can go a long way because we serve a great God. And when He sees someone who is faithful and available, He will supply whatever we lack to accomplish great things for His kingdom.
God is not looking for great men and women, but He is looking for ordinary people, with an extraordinary desire to worship and serve Jesus. If you are faithful and available, God not only wants you, but He will use you to accomplish great things for the advancement of the gospel and His kingdom. So, remember, while we may just be ordinary, we serve a God who is not only extraordinary, but specializes in using ordinary people to do extraordinary things!