Just a Shepherd's Staff by Mary Folkerts

 

Why should they believe me, God? Who am I to take on this job? Who am I to teach this class or write this devotion? They all know who I am, my hang-ups and downfalls. I’m too much and not enough! God, you should probably ask someone more capable.

The words are as old as time, and God’s response to the excuses is as constant as the day Moses mumbled them when God chose him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. “But Moses protested again, ‘What if they won’t believe me or listen to me? What if they say, ‘The Lord never appeared to you’?’ Then the Lord asked him, “What is that in your hand?” “A shepherd’s staff,” Moses replied.” Exodus 4:1-2 (NLT).

What is in your hand? My hands? Just a shepherd’s staff, God. It’s nothing.

But here’s the thing: God likes to take the things that seem like nothing and use them for His purpose! A simple talent or ability given with a willing heart can be of great use in the hands of a mighty God. It’s not so much what I have to give, but my willingness to give what I have.

It’s not so much what I have to give,

but my willingness to give what I have.

What might be some examples of the shepherd’s staff you’re holding? Think about the things you do well or the things you enjoy doing. How could you use these for God? Maybe it’s the story God is unfolding in your life that He wants you to share. Could it be that point of pain you wrestle with? Perhaps somebody else is wrestling with the same thing, and your story could be an encouragement!

No matter how insignificant we feel (and let’s be clear that there is a big difference between humility and feelings of low self-worth), God has given each of us a staff in our hands. He wants us to use what He has given us for His glory.

There will undoubtedly be seasons when we feel more broken than useful, but even there, God asks us to come and bring what we have. Sometimes, it might just be our wounded self with empty, outstretched hands. Even that, He will use.

I am reminded of a song, “Good and Gracious King,” by CityAlight. You can find the lyrics by clicking to the link HERE.

What is that in your hands?

Mary Folkerts is mom to four kids and wife to a farmer, living on the southern prairies of Alberta, where the skies are large and the sunsets stunning. She is a Proverbs 31 ministries COMPEL Writers Training member involved in church ministries and music. Mary’s blog aims to encourage and inspire women and advocate for those with Down Syndrome, as their youngest child introduced them to this extraordinary new world. For more inspiration, check out Joy in the Small Things https://maryfolkerts.com/ or connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/maryfolkerts/