Do you sometimes doubt that you can make a difference? Life seems to be controlled by the big media players, the rich and powerful or the political party machines.
I was reminded this week how our Heavenly Father chooses to use ordinary people empowered by his mighty word.
We have all been reminded through the movie “Amazing Grace” of the extraordinary social changes that William Wilberforce drove. This Christian politician was strategic in driving anti-slavery laws through the British parliament. Recent biographies though note the role played by his friends, and especially his wife, in maintaining Wilberforce’s drive over many years to achieve this history shaping event. Even though sadly we must remember that slavery still exists as a dreadful scar on humanity, and Christian groups remain active in seeking it’s abolition.
However, it’s worth remembering too the influence just one person can have, armed only with the word of God. Isaac Milner was never mentioned in the movie. But long before the Wilberforce’s victory in the House of Commons, Milner took 25 year old Wilberforce on a hiking holiday. Milner read the Bible with Wilberforce, explained the gospel to him and the young man submitted his life to Christ.
Two men reading the Bible on holidays changed the course of human history. Do we really believe what the apostle said that “the gospel is the power of God for salvation”. Do we trust God through his word can and will make a difference? That reading the Bible with others is life changing? What a difference God can make when parents read the bible to their children and husbands with their wives; when work mates read the Bible over lunch or when friendship extends to reading God’s word together over coffee or a bike ride; when the theatre party, exercise walk or golf game is preceded by opening the Bible.
One of the simplest ways of serving our brothers and sister here at Gymea Church is to commit to reading the Bible and praying together in a LIFE group. It takes a bit of prioritising and commitment, but it’s one of the most loving things we can do for each other. I’m delighted that 2/3 of our members are currently in weekly LIFE groups. If you’re not would you talk to our pastors about finding one? But don’t restrict reading the Bible to just group time.
Little things can make a very big difference by God’s grace.
