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
