Honoring God with What We Are Given

Scripture Thought for the Week: Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should. Ephesians 6:19-20
Recently as I read about King David in the Psalms, I was reminded of the objects that David used throughout his lifetime in serving the Lord. A staff, a slingshot, a sword and a harp were mentioned in this particular writing and I jotted down those four words. As I pondered the extent to which David used each of these objects, I began to wonder about those things that God has given to me for my witness and work for the Kingdom. In order to analyze my own gifts, I looked deeper into those four words used to describe Davids life on earth. As a boy, David was a shepherd and used his staff to lead and guide the flock placed within his care. I assume David gently led his fathers flock nudging them along with the staff as he watched over their actions and whereabouts. It was Davids job to make sure the sheep were kept safely out of harms way and returned to his father for the purpose to which they were created. The slingshot, an object of protection and defense, David employed to sway dangerous animals from attacking the sheep. The Bible refers to a lion and bear among the animals that attempted to target the sheep for a meal, but David denied their intent carrying this meager object equipped for battle loaded with smooth stones. Although as an adult, Davids sword was used to enter battle against armies, I think of Davids sword in the armor of God which is listed in Ephesians 6:10-18. In verse 17, Take the helmet of salvation and the word of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Davids sword proved to be powerful, not only to defeat armies, but Davids knowledge of God enabled him to see through his many times of discouragement and uncertainty. The Book of Psalms is full of writings regarding those times of needing to hear from God, but they also testify of Gods goodness and mercy toward David. Davids harp was also a powerful tool used by God. The skill with which David had acquired to play this instrument, probably on the hillside at night watching over his flock, quieted the heart of King Saul when Sauls heart could find no peace. This instrument was also

used to praise the Lord of all creation as the Holy Spirit lifted Davids spirit and gave him hope for the future. What a beautiful picture of Gods guiding hand and gentle leading by way of the staff. A simple weapon, a slingshot, demonstrates the protective, defensive arm of the Lord in adverse circumstances. The Word of God is like a sword, sharp and able to divide the truth so that the message delivered will not be mistaken. And a harp that allows the soul to praise, sing and dance to the melodious tunes that fill the heart with a peace that passes all understanding. We can then praise the Lord as the Holy Spirit lifts our spirits and gives us hope. Anxiously, lets pray that the Lord will continue to reveal those objects in our possession that might appear to be ordinary. For God can transform the meek to mighty and bring many souls to the Kingdom of Heaven. He has already used a staff, a slingshot, a sword and a harp. What might He use of yours?

Father, go before us and reveal those gifts and talents that we might not be utilizing for the Kingdom of Heaven. Then may we always be available and willing. In Jesus name, Amen!