~ by Terry Walters
Matthew 13:31-32
My heart has always been to
serve in smaller churches. However, when you
consider the actual size of the average church,
most I have been a part of were bigger
than average - but still, not large at all.
Sometimes I let it bother me that we
seemed limited by our small size,
fewer people, less money, less
physical resources, small town, etc.
However, God has ways of pointing us
back to the truth. From the
mustard seed story, we learn
that being small has nothing really
to do with potential and that growth
is by God's power not ours!
The tiny mustard seed grew into a
plant large enough to produce much more seed,
shade, and even a place of shelter.
Birds in the Bible often represent evil.
The context of this parable suggests
they represent unbelievers among the
kingdom’s blessings and benefits.
However, the same principle applies -
do not be discouraged by their presence!
That is God's business. Our business is
to help grow the kingdom by growing
ourselves and reaching and developing others.
Whoever else may get blessed is up to God.
Do not get discouraged at being
young, or small, or being part
of a small class or church or ministry.
Don't get distracted and discouraged by
unbelievers, even if they take advantage
of the church. God’s power will
produce what is right - you just grow.
Prayer: Father, help keep our eyes focused
on you and your kingdom building,
not on the size of the work nor
who else may try to take part in the blessings.
P.S. Think about these things:
Jesus touched thousands of lives with a
young boy's lunch and though Gideon
considered himself the least member
of one of the lowliest families in Israel,
God used him to save and lead a nation.
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