An electric chainsaw can be useful in the right hands. I was up a
tree the other day at my parents' house cutting down a branch with my
dad's chainsaw. It was a bit scary because I am aware of its power to
slice through anything, tree or human!
My father is now sadly too
frail to have done the work, so when I had completed it he said I could
keep the chainsaw. I keep it at his house, there being not much call for
a chainsaw in a basement flat with no garden.
My dad's chainsaw
reminds me of God's desire to give gifts, according to His will (1 John
5:14-15). For example God does not give gifts, like chainsaws or snakes,
to toddlers. If he did give dangerous gifts to toddlers they would hurt
themselves or others. So, in my understanding, it would contradict His
exemplary character of fatherhood.
I believe God gives good gifts
to all of us: some different; some the same; all to be used, handled
with care and ready to go. He grows and prepares us in various and
different ways. For instance David, a mere youth, was a boy who became
skilled in the use of a slingshot and grew up to lead a nation. Elisha
followed Elijah and learnt the power of prayer, so too the disciples
followed Jesus and learnt the Good News. They all learnt to do the will
of God.
Do I know what the will of God is for me today? Are the
gifts I have "sharp" and "well oiled" for use? Am I willing to take a
risk, go out on a limb and use them? That reminds me I must have a look
for rust and wear. How are yours? They could be needed today!
1
Corinthians 12:4-7:- Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same
Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there
are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them
all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for
the common good. (ESV).
PRAYER: Father, in the cleansing blood of
Jesus wash us, to deliver us from all that is past. Remind us what this
means to You. By Your Holy Spirit, replace in us those things that have
been lost, broken, stolen or worn out. Sharpen our blunted edges,
quicken and refine us so that when the day is past and all is done, we
can be found still standing with You.
In our time LORD, grow Your Church. Amen.
Rod
Marshal Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
