For decades I basically insulted my Creator. Seriously? Yes! I had this idea that I was just one person and what I did or didn’t do was quite insignificant in the big scheme of things. I disregarded the fact that I was custom designed by the Great I AM and that He had plans and purposes for the use of His gifts within me.
We are very aware that the sin of one person set the world upside down. Then, of course, the life, death, and resurrection of another set it right.
We all look to those moments in history with a sense of awe, but the truth is, while no one can ever make the impact Christ did, one person can still make a huge difference.
Nehemiah not only rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem, but through the ripple effect of his fervor and dedication, God’s people confessed and repented; they ridded themselves of foreign wives and gods; and the nation turned back to the worship of the One True God.
Nehemiah – Moses – Abraham – Joseph – they were all just one person who listened to God and did what He asked. God is the one who anointed and empowered them to accomplish the task He set before them.
Since God is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb 13:8), will He not do the same for each of us? Perhaps He may not call us to save a nation or rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, but He may call us to raise up godly children, rebuild a neighbor’s fence, or reflect God’s love in our workplace to save a soul. After all, He left the 99 to rescue one lost sheep. To Him, it was a big deal!
Eph 2:10 says that He has planned good works in advance for us to accomplish. It is our job to listen and obey. Often He tests us with the small simple things before He entrusts us with changing the world. Zechariah 4:10 admonishes us to not despise the day of small beginnings.
Who knows, you may be one person God is calling to save our nation. With God, all things are possible. God chooses to use simple, ordinary people. After all, with the vision and passion of a handful of “one persons” Lubbock became a sanctuary city.
Has God placed anything on your heart? Pray, carefully prepare, and step into action. God is big enough to clean up any mess you make if somehow you missed a step. If nothing is burning within you, ask God to plant His purpose within you – however big or small – and then get busy! There is so much to be accomplished in our few days left on this earth. If each of us will simply listen and do our part, mountains can still be moved!
If this message has spoken to your heart, please pray with me:
Oh Lord, I confess to you that I have allowed the tasks and things of this world to distract and consume me. I ask forgiveness for that, Lord. I do want to be “one person” who can make a difference. Help me to listen to your call, follow your direction, and walk in your power to accomplish it. Together, we can make a difference, whatever it may be. Thank you, Lord.
In the powerful name of your Son, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
