Central Truth

The ordinary in God's hands becomes something amazing.

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Reflections

My career—music—is characterized by the achievements of those who are talented, hard working, and unusually gifted. The person with average musical talent, mediocre hand-eye coordination, or typical motivation to practice does not achieve much in the profession. Those who distinguish themselves in music are truly exceptional. In many other professions this is also the case.

God does use gifted individuals. David was a talented musician and poet. Paul distinguished himself as a student and devoted follower of Judaism. Augustine in the 5th century and Martin Luther in the 16th century were leading theologians in their time. These men greatly advanced the kingdom of God through their writings and lives.

Too often we think that it is only the gifted who can do God's work. God's plan, however, is not dependent upon the best and the brightest. “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; . . . “ (1 Corinthians 1:26-27, New King James Version)

In Matthew 14 we find an example of something insignificant transformed to show God's power. Jesus took what was perhaps someone's lunch and multiplied it to feed 5,000 people. The fish and bread were nothing much, very simple, just an ordinary meal. But what an extraordinary result! The people were amazed at what God did.

God can easily advance His kingdom with the ordinary, the unimportant, and the rejected. Sometimes He even prefers to do so! God is looking for willing people, not prideful. He is looking for volunteers rather than the reluctant. It is not an excuse in God's kingdom to say “But we have only. . .” The little that we can bring to Him can be multiplied in His hands. The ordinary becomes extraordinary. The rejected becomes something prized in His hands.

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Discussion Questions

The multiplication of the bread and fish is not just a story of a good meal. It speaks to many aspects of Christian living.

1. Someone came prepared with food. How would this relate to our preparedness to minister and witness as Christians?

2. How has God used what is simple and ordinary in your life to accomplish His purpose?

3. What examples can you give of God using the “foolish things of this world” for His glory?

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