“I used to think I had to be somebody important to accomplish things, but now I know Jesus uses ordinary people more” (Bob Goff, Love Does).
So…when I realized I’m more like Moses instead of Joseph, who obediently followed God’s lead every step of the way, at first I was disappointed in myself. I wanted to be more like Mark Batterson and Bob Goff, who take life by both handlebars and squeeze as much life out as they possibly can. I wanted to make a mark for God in a profound way so that He will say, “Well done my good and faithful servant,” when I finally meet Him face-to-face someday.
I soon discovered that I’m doing just that. By saying yes and obediently taking one step at a time, even though timid and scared and needing reassurance at times, I am fulfilling the passion God placed in my heart and I am giving Him the glory all the more. Because it’s very evident that any progress made toward God’s kingdom advancing isn’t because of something I did, but it’s simply because I obeyed when God said to walk and He did the rest. I’ve learned that when I put faith into practice is when I please God the most. He wants me to have faith to start walking, but He also wants me to depend on His map for the journey every step of the way. I don’t have to have the answers, I don’t even have to have an adventurous spirit. I just have to be willing to follow His path, His timing, and to give Him the glory all along the way.
I admire Mark Batterson and Bob Goff and others like them in this world. There will probably always be a part of me that wishes I had a personality more like theirs. I’m glad God created people like Joseph, Mr. Batterson, and Mr. Goff, who lead by example. It’s through their influence of complete abandon toward the adventures God placed in their lives, that I caught pure enthusiasm for the journey God placed on mine.
So, I think I’ll embrace the fact Moses and I are quite alike. When I choose to obey God, I still get to have the adventure of a lifetime, I still get to receive His blessings for my faith and obedience, and I still get to leave my couch. I just like wearing my seat belt and making sure my family is strapped in securely as well.
© 2013 Cheri Swalwell
I am reminded of a saying I read recently: because Jesus is extraordinary, I can be ordinary. Even ordinary in God’s kingdom is light years above anything this world has to offer for adventure. God bless you, Cheri.
Thank you so much, Peter, for that reminder. What a great (and so true) saying. God bless you and your family as well, Peter.