USE ME
Summary of USE ME from March 5
Have you ever felt God nudging you to do something….and your first thought was,
‘Surely not me’
BEING CALLED TO SERVE
The call to serve is an important theme in the Bible (1 Peter 4:10, Mark 10:45, and Jeremiah 29:11 are just a few).
The Bible is filled with examples of those who were called to serve in various ways who had differing reactions.
Read about Moses and his reluctant response in Exodus 3:1-10, Exodus 4:1-8, and Exodus 4:12.
Read about Jonah’s story beginning in Jonah 1:1-3. He literally ran and hid from God.
Esther’s call and courageous response to God with no hesitation are found in Esther 4:13-17
Mary, the mother of Jesus with “why me”? doubts accepted God’s call with obedience in spite of the personal hardships she knew she would face. Luke 1:38
Peter was called two times by God through His son, Jesus. It is significant that Jesus called Peter both times at the Sea of Galilee. Once as Jesus’s ministry was beginning and then after His death and resurrection. These two beautiful stories are found in Luke and John (Luke 5:1-11 and John 21). It is also important to note that Jesus travelled 80 miles in his resurrected body to call Peter a second time. What a meaningful exchange Jesus and Peter had in verses John 21:15-17. Jesus was telling Peter that his calling was not over. Jesus was in essence saying, “I have more for you to do”. Both times Peter responded with faith.
RECOGNIZING THE CALL
We may not see a burning bush in our backyards one day, but we do receive our own personal callings in various ways:
God communicates to us through SCRIPTURE;
God responds to us through PRAYER and;
We receive callings from OTHER PEOPLE.
RESPONDING TO THE CALL
Recognize/embrace the call and be ready to respond. This may sometimes mean stepping out of your comfort zone casting aside your doubts and fears and maybe even other activities WE have made OUR priorities. This is not always easy – this is when trust must step in. God will provide guidance and encouragement.
NEXT STEPS
Identify your gifts and talents - Read Romans 12:3-8 as you sit quietly to access your skills. Don’t be shy – we are all good at something! Join us on April 16 when Kitty Keadle will explore this further.
Pray – Be patient, be quiet, and listen.
Ask yourself, “what does serving mean to me?”
Seek out ways to serve. Ask others what is needed.
Encourage others who are serving.
Remember, God call us NOT because of who we are, but because of who HE is.
When He calls, our response should be simple
USE ME!
