Keeping Up Appearances
God does not choose us because we got straight A's at school, we make lots of money or we're stunning in appearance.
Deuteronomy 7:1-26
Reference: v.7 The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. (NIV Bible)
Explore: I am constantly made aware of my insignificance and limitations. The other week I went skiing and while I felt quite confident on the easier slopes I could see hundreds of better skiers around me who could absolutely nail a really difficult and steep slope. A few weeks ago I was at a conference where I heard a number of brilliant preachers. They were able to encourage me in my faith better than I could ever encourage someone else in their understanding of God. Just yesterday I got my hair cut and stepped out of the salon feeling bouncy and glamorous and yet it seemed that every other person I met for the rest of the day displayed a beauty greater than I will ever possess. I can try to look the part and pretend that I have it all together and keep up my appearance. But there is always someone more confident, more eloquent and better looking than me. HOWEVER, that does not mean that God can not use me.
Application: The Israelites were God's chosen people. They were not chosen for their good looks, their perfect attitudes or their strength in numbers. It was because of God's love, grace and keeping His promises that they were chosen. The same is for you and me. God does not choose us because we got straight A's at school, we make lots of money or we're stunning in appearance. God chooses us because He loves us, He has forgiven all our short-comings and He promises to always be there for us. There's a great quote I use to have on my wall in my office: 'God does not choose those who are able, He enables those He chooses.' We do not have to be perfect to be loved by God, we just need to be willing.
Prayer: Lord, we fall short of Your glory every single day. Thank you for being so loving and forgiving that You accept us just as we are. Amen.
What area in your life do you feel insignificant or useless? How can God use you in this part of your life?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.