God Can Use Anyone
Throughout biblical history, God often weaves the most extraordinary stories through the lives of seemingly ordinary individuals. These unlikely candidates, often overlooked by society, become vessels through which God's power and purpose are revealed.
One such example from the Old Testament is Moses. At the burning bush, Moses hesitated when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. He doubted his abilities and even questioned God's choice. Yet, God saw beyond Moses' insecurities and equipped him for the monumental task ahead. Through signs and wonders, Moses became a mighty leader, guiding God's people to freedom.
David, the youngest son of Jesse, was another unlikely candidate. When the prophet Samuel came to anoint one of Jesse's sons as the future king of Israel, David wasn't even considered. But God saw something in David that others overlooked—a heart devoted to Him. David's victory over Goliath and his reign as king marked him as a man after God's own heart, despite his flaws.
Moving to the New Testament, we encounter Mary Magdalene, a woman with a troubled past. Before meeting Jesus, Mary Magdalene was tormented by demons. Yet, Jesus saw beyond her afflictions and liberated her. She became one of His most devoted followers, witnessing His miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection. Mary Magdalene's transformed life is a testament to God's redeeming power.
Paul, formerly known as Saul, stands as a striking example of an unlikely candidate transformed by God's grace. Saul was a zealous persecutor of Christians until his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. In a moment of divine revelation, Saul's life was turned upside down. He became one of the most influential apostles, spreading the Gospel across nations and penning numerous epistles that continue to inspire and instruct believers today.
These stories, among many others in the Bible, remind us that God's ways are not our ways. He often chooses the weak, the humble, and the unlikely to showcase His strength and glory. As 1 Corinthians 1:27-29 declares, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."
To conclude, the lives of these unlikely candidates in the Bible teach us that God's power is made perfect in weakness. He sees potential where others see limitations, and He uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes. As we journey through life, may we remember that God can use anyone who surrenders to His will, regardless of their background or perceived shortcomings.
Fifty years ago, I committed my life to serving the Lord. I hold an associate degree in Christian Education and a bachelor’s degree in Christian Counseling. I live by 1 Corinthians 9:16, Ephesians 3:7-8, and Colossians 1:28-29. In my retirement, I focus on studying and teaching God’s Word. Besides writing this Blog I maintain 3 Facebook pages dedicated to spreading the Word of God. Email: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com