USED

Sometimes good deeds and the people that do them are taken for granted.  The Pareto principle states that 80 percent of results come from 20 percent of actions.  This may or may not be true, but if you’re one that’s involved, whether in church, family event planning, social event planning, or the job, it sure seems true.  Instead of the beneficiary launching any significant recruiting effort for others, these same people step up or are asked over and over again.  It happens to the point that sometimes the workers feel used and worn out.  They must be careful not to overdo it, because tired workers can never give their best. 

Rest makes for more energetic workers for the next project, a recharging of the batteries.   Volunteers with energy and passion don’t usually need appreciation for what they do.  But everyone likes to hear it sometime.  I personally think I hear it too often, but would feel underappreciated if I didn’t hear it at all.  But you know what?  I’d keep doing it.  Why?  Because I’m not doing it for man.  I’m doing it for the glory of God.   Matthew 5:16 reads, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”  Let your bulbs burn bright.

Heaven is not a place you work your way in, but because of your faith in Christ, you produce works.  James 2:14-17 states, “What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?  Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.”  God will use us if we will allow.  But it’s all about choice; choosing to do what’s right, choosing to do His will, choosing to say yes.  Bill Withers had a song about keep on using me, until you use me up.  He liked being used in his song.  It all felt good for him for whatever reason.  That’s the way it is when you allow God to use you.  You produce fruits, works, joy in other people’s lives, while finding joy for yourself.  Philippians 4:4-5 reads, “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do…”

God equips the called and calls the equipped.  He will prepare you for your calling, and if you already have the resources, He calls you to use them for Him.  It’s time to get off the sidelines and the bench and get in the game.  It’s time to use your gifts for His glory.  It’s time for your focus to get off you and onto the Lord your God.  It’s time!  Let the gladness of heart (joy) that comes from knowing God fill you as you allow yourself to be used by Him.  Jesus, keep on using me, until you use me up.  With God, we should be overjoyed to be used.