Help God to build up

Has anyone assumed we couldn't do something because we were young, or female, or male, or underqualified, or because we'd done something silly in the past? This can be so discouraging, especially if it feels like we were made to do something that others say we can't.

Well, God doesn't underestimate people. He calls us to build people up rather than tear them down. The Bible is full of characters who people expected absolutely nothing from: David was a shepherd boy, Moses was considered an orphan, Elizabeth was an old barren woman, Joseph was the youngest of twelve brothers (bit of a dreamer, too), and yet each played a vital role in God's huge tapestry of a plan. Even Jesus... he was a refugee, born to a teenage mother and poor carpenter.

God builds hopeless-looking lives into glorious examples of his goodness. And we're called to reflect that hope to the world too. Even in small ways. Every conversation, shared lunch or genuine compliment counts. Next time someone tells us to be 'realistic', let's remind ourselves (and maybe even them) of the adventures God led his people on, freeing them from oppression and feelings of worthlessness. Then let's give our dreams to God and allow him to make us into all that he sees for us.



So what now? Know someone who could do with some encouragement? Pray, and then act: offer a little practical help, take them for lunch, whatever they need.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful...' 1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT
— SOULFOOD —

Eze 37:1-40:9, Matt 19:15-30, Ps 73:17-28, Pro 15:22-24