"We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak. We felt like grasshoppers
next to them, and that's what we looked like to them." Numbers 13:33 NLT
Quan was struggling with a foreboding sense of insignificance. His people were
celebrating a feast for their gods. They didn't want them to send evil spirits
to punish them. Quan, however, wasn't participating. He would rather spend time
with the local Christian missionaries, the Folicks. They had arrived on his
island two years ago to tell his people about a greater God. Only a few
listened. Quan was one of them. His life had radically changed, but he felt
insignificant. What could one person do to influence the actions of so many?
Joshua and Caleb no doubt felt insignificant as well. Among twelve spies Moses
had sent to spy out the Promised Land, they were the only two who returned with
a favorable report. Yes, the cities were walled, and yes, the people were
fierce, but they had God on their side. They could conquer the land. God
rewarded their diligence. Joshua was chosen to lead the new generation of
Israelites into the Promised Land, and Caleb was given a parcel of land.
I-like Quan, Joshua, and Caleb-have felt the creeping fingers of insignificance.
I listen to media sources, and it appears evil is overwhelming good. What can I
possibly do to stem the flow? Christians are in a minority, and I circulate in a
very small part of the world. How much of an influence could I possibly exert?
Lack of trust will keep me feeling helpless, and this is exactly where Satan
would love for me to camp. God, on the other hand, wants my faith. Faith-even as
small as a mustard seed-can move mountains because it is placed in the One who
has the ability to shift them. I can do great things because the One who lives
in me is greater than the One who lives in the world. What appears small to me,
He can use to make a major impact.
One thing we have that Quan, Joshua, and Caleb knew nothing about is technology.
With the click of a mouse or the tap of a finger, we can send the gospel-along
with spiritual encouragement, across the world. Think of one way you can use
your technology to overcome feelings of insignificance.
Prayer: Father, when we feel insignificant, remind us who we truly are in Jesus
Christ.
Martin Wiles Hodges, South Carolina, USA
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
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