4 minute read
A Good Word: I Didn’t Ask to be a Disciple
I Didn’t Ask to be a Disciple
Use Your Influence Over People Wisely & with Empathy
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by Charlie Pilkington
I recently had a conversation about discipleship with my good friend Quinn Shipper, author of the book The Language of Forgiveness, over at The Outpost.
I never viewed myself as someone who had a calling, or some defining epiphany moment. I admired those individuals that have been moved to a higher calling, starting faith-based nonprofits, groups, church ministry, etc. He was quick to remind me that although I may not admit it, God is using me and through Him I am a disciple.
Early-century Scottish Baptist evangelist Oswald Chambers is quoted as saying “Our Lord’s conception of discipleship is not that we work for God, but that God works through us.” I often share with people my own testimony of challenges in my life that could have had either epic failure, or in my case, salvation by the Grace of God.
I look back on those times and refer to it as a road that God required of me to get from point A to B. Of course, I would have preferred a straight line of paved road with no tolls. Unfortunately, my road was a hard unpaved dirt road with lots of potholes. I jokingly share that in prayer I thank God for the experience but would prefer not to take bumpy roads again.
But that’s not how life works. “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4. It’s those experiences that molded me with great empathy and a desire to share, encourage, and offer hope to those in need of it. When you’re in the middle of a bad storm, it’s hard to think of blue skies. Know that bad times are not forever and they, too, will pass. “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10. When I was going through my challenges in life, I had no idea what God had in store for me; that he would use me to guide others to seek out help for their addictions, to assist veterans with needs, becoming board member of non-profits, or starting a semimonthly Faith In Business breakfast.
If you’re reading this and have your own storm to traverse, know that whatever you’re going through, it’s not forever. Ask God for his assistance in prayer and he will answer. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17. God places people in our lives to help us become better — understand your own influence and use it wisely.
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