A New Day

By: Pastor Johnie Akers   

Amos 7:14, 15, “Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah, ‘I was no prophet, neither was I a prophet’s son; but I was an herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit; and the Lord took me as I followed the flock, and the Lord said unto me, Go, prophesy unto my people Israel.’” If you ever have had second thoughts about God using you because of your flaws, consider this: Moses stuttered. Aaron was an idolater. John Mark was rejected by Paul. Hosea’s wife was a prostitute. Amos’ only training was in the school of fig-picking. Solomon was too rich. Abraham was too old. Abraham was also a liar. Isaac was a liar. Jacob was a liar. David was too young. David was also an adulterer. Timothy had stomach problems. Peter was afraid of death. Lazarus was dead. John was self-righteous. Naomi was a widow. Paul was a murderer. So was Moses. So was David. Jonah ran from God. Miriam was a gossip. Gideon and Thomas both doubted. Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal. Elijah was burned out. John the Baptist was a loudmouth. Martha was a worrywart. Mary was lazy. Samson had long hair. Noah got drunk. Did I mention that Moses had a short fuse? So did Peter, Paul—well lots of folks did. Throughout Sacred Scripture, the icons of the faith that we so often venerate as “saints,” ended up being just like me and you—flesh and blood. Satan is renowned for looking back and pointing at our mistakes to disqualify us from serving in the kingdom of God. Yet God looks back and points at the cross to qualify us to be used by Him. So, every time Satan reminds you that you are not worthy to be used of God, tell him that while you know that in yourself you were not worthy, Jesus Christ isworthy. And God has imputed to us the righteousness of Jesus Christ and declared us to be worthy; and he (or she) God has declared to be worthy, is worthy. So today, remember, God has always used flawed vessels to perform His work. In doing so, it is not the flawed vessel that receives the glory, but it is God who receives the glory.  Allow the Lord to use you today. His strength can be made perfect in your weakness, as you submit to His purpose for your life, for this and each new day.