Tag: sacrifice

why I’m here, and where I believe God is taking us

I didn’t set out to become a pastor. I became one because there was a need here—right here in this church. I was already serving as a chaplain, but the pastor at the time was struggling more than I realized. He asked me to come alongside him and help carry the load. The congregation affirmed that call, and I’ve been doing my best to serve faithfully ever since.

But the truth is, God had been calling me long before that. Even as a teenager, I knew God wanted me to preach and shepherd His people. I ran from it. I went my own way. But God never gave up on me. He pursued me relentlessly. My wife saw it in me even when I didn’t want to see it in myself. She kept encouraging me to answer that call, and eventually, I couldn’t run any longer.

This church—our church—is special. It’s small, rural, and has a history marked by both division and reconciliation. Born out of controversy, it spent years finding its identity, and just a decade ago, we merged with the very church we split from half a century earlier. Despite everything, we’re still here. And I believe that’s not by accident. God still has a plan for us.

But I also see something that burdens me deeply: our people seem tired. I sense that many wonder if God can still use them. Some feel forgotten, others just worn down. And here’s what I want to say to you:

Yes, God can still use you. And yes, God wants to.

If I could light a fire in the heart of every person here, it would be this: The old ways don’t work anymore. We’ve lost the cultural home-field advantage. But that’s okay. The early church didn’t have it either. What they had was courage, creativity, and conviction. And we can have that too.

It’s time to be bold again. Time to stop trying to get back to the way things were. Time to rise up and be the subversive, life-giving force that Jesus called His church to be. It’s our sacred responsibility to train up a new generation of faithful believers—not by retreating, but by stepping forward into the darkness with the light of Christ.

Here’s the vision I believe God has given us for the next few years:

In a world drowning in lies, we must become a people of truth.

In a culture of loneliness, we will be a family of friends.

Where confusion reigns, we will be a voice of clarity.

Where death is celebrated, we will bring the hope of life.

But I won’t lie to you—the road ahead is not easy. Our biggest threats aren’t outside pressures. They’re inside us: stagnation, irrelevance, and fear. And we must face them together.

What keeps me going? The knowledge that Jesus never gave up on me—and I won’t give up on Him. His words in the Beatitudes remind me of the kind of person I want to be, even when I feel weak, lazy, or inadequate. Only He can help me press on.

And why now? Because I’m 62 years old, and I know I don’t have time to waste. God gave me a second chance, and I intend to make it count. When I look 20 years down the road, I want to be the old man in the back of the church, watching the young leaders we raised up carry the torch forward. I want them to look my way and say:

“Thank you, Pastor, for seeing something in me when I didn’t see it myself. Thank you for never giving up.”

That’s the legacy I’m living for. And I want you to live for it too.

Let’s rise. Let’s build. Let’s fight for the future—together.

In Christ,
Pastor Peter Ceccardi

Lord Jesus,

You never gave up on me, even when I ran, even when I resisted, even when I was blind to what You saw in me. Thank You for Your mercy. Thank You for calling me still.

I lift up this little church You’ve given me to shepherd. You know our history. You know our struggles. You know how tired some of us are, and how much we’ve wondered if You’re done with us.

But I believe You’re not done—not with me, and not with us.

Breathe life into dry bones, Lord. Wake us from our slumber. Rekindle the fire that once burned. Replace our fear with courage, our weariness with strength, and our apathy with holy urgency.

Teach us to be bold, creative, faithful witnesses in a world that has forgotten You. Make us a people of truth, clarity, and friendship in a culture of lies, confusion, and loneliness.

Help me to lead well—for as long as You give me breath. Let the seeds I plant now bear fruit in the lives of those who will come after me. And when they remember me, let it not be for sermons or successes, but for a quiet faithfulness that never gave up on what You could do through broken people who believed.

Build Your Church, Lord—and start with us.

In Your mighty name,
Amen.

working, living, walking, and growing

Faith is not a spectator sport. It’s not just about feeling inspired, nodding along to a good sermon, or posting a Bible verse on social media. God calls us to something far greater—real, lived-out obedience.

Yes, He works in us. But we must work it out! The Spirit gives life, but we must actually live! He strengthens us, but we must step forward in obedience! He plants the seed of righteousness, but we must bear the fruit of holiness!

Too many wish to will, but they do not do. They claim to love Christ, but their hands remain idle, their feet unmoved, their hearts unchanged. But the Christian life is not just about wanting to follow Jesus—it’s about actually following Him.

Philippians 2:12-13 captures this tension perfectly:

“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to do for His good pleasure.”

Did you catch that? God works in us—He stirs our hearts, changes our desires, and gives us the strength we need. But that doesn’t mean we sit back and coast. Paul says we must work it out. That means taking what God has planted in us and bringing it to life through action.

Think of an athlete. No one wins a race by simply wanting to run. Desire is important, but unless they train, push themselves, and step onto the track, they’ll never cross the finish line. The same is true in our faith! God equips us, but we must step forward. He provides strength, but we must put it to use.

James 1:22 is a wake-up call for every believer:

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

It’s easy to be a hearer. We listen to sermons, read devotionals, and fill our minds with truth. But what good is it if it never moves us to action? The Lord seeks not the talk of men, but the labor of their hands. The world is not changed by words alone, but by lives transformed by the power of Christ!

Will we simply speak of obedience, or will we obey?

Will we admire holiness, or will we pursue it?

Will we praise love, or will we practice it?

The difference between a passive believer and an active disciple is action. Faith isn’t meant to be admired from a distance—it’s meant to be lived out daily, in the trenches, where it’s tested and refined.

Jesus had strong words for those who only appeared to be faithful but had no real fruit to show for it. In Mark 11, He cursed a fig tree that was full of leaves but had no figs. It looked healthy from a distance, but up close, it was barren.

We must not be content with mere appearance. Christianity isn’t just about looking the part—it’s about bearing real, lasting fruit. Galatians 5:22-23 tells us what that fruit looks like: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities aren’t just theoretical; they’re meant to shape our interactions, our choices, our daily lives.

True faith has evidence. It’s visible in the way we love, serve, and sacrifice. It’s seen in our integrity, our kindness, and our willingness to follow Christ even when it’s hard.

Brethren, if we are truly His workmanship, let us not be satisfied with half-hearted faith. Let’s move beyond mere belief into obedience. Let’s push past good intentions into faithful action.

The world doesn’t need more Christians who simply talk about Jesus. It needs disciples who actually live like Him.

If God is calling you to serve, step forward and serve.

If He is prompting you to forgive, don’t hesitate—do it.

If He is leading you to share the gospel, open your mouth and speak.

He has already equipped you. Now it’s time to step out in faith.

Let’s be fruitful. Let’s be faithful. Let’s live lives of real, tangible service to His Kingdom. Because God is working in us—but we must work it out!

Lord,

Thank You for working in us, for shaping our hearts and giving us the desire to follow You. But, Father, don’t let us stop at good intentions. Give us the courage to live out our faith, to step forward in obedience, to move when You call.

Forgive us for the times we have been hearers only, for the moments we admired righteousness but failed to pursue it. Stir in us a holy dissatisfaction with passivity. Help us not just to talk about love, but to love deeply. Not just to praise holiness, but to walk in it.

We don’t want to be all leaves and no fruit. Make our lives a testimony of Your grace in action. Strengthen our hands, guide our steps, and use us for Your glory.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

the paradox of salvation

In the intricate tapestry of religious teachings and theological concepts, perhaps none is more paradoxical and profound than the idea that salvation, the ultimate redemption from sin and separation from God, came at an immeasurable cost but is graciously offered to humanity freely by God.

The narrative of salvation, woven through various religious traditions, often involves sacrifice, atonement, and divine intervention. In Christianity, the cornerstone of this paradox lies in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The belief is that God, in the person of Jesus, willingly bore the weight of humanity’s sins on the cross, enduring unimaginable suffering and death to reconcile humanity with the divine. This sacrificial act is often described as the “Atonement” — the reconciliation of God and humans through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The paradox deepens when we reflect on the idea that this costly act of salvation is, at the same time, offered freely to all who believe. The Apostle Paul encapsulates this paradox in the New Testament when he writes, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8, NIV). The profound tension between the costliness of salvation and its free offer is a theological mystery that has intrigued scholars and believers for centuries.

The costliness of salvation is a reflection of the gravity of sin and the divine justice that demanded a redemptive price. The Bible teaches that sin separates humanity from God, creating a chasm that can only be bridged by a perfect sacrifice. The death of Jesus on the cross is viewed as the ultimate payment for sin, satisfying the demands of justice while manifesting God’s boundless love. In this perspective, salvation is not merely a transaction but a cosmic event that alters the very fabric of existence.

However, the beauty of the paradox lies in the free offer of this costly salvation to humanity. Unlike a transactional arrangement where one must earn or purchase redemption, the Christian message emphasizes grace – unmerited favor freely given by God. This concept challenges common human notions of earning one’s way to salvation and introduces the idea of divine love that transcends human understanding.

The free offer of salvation is an invitation extended to all, irrespective of merit or moral standing. It is a universal call to redemption that echoes through the ages, inviting individuals to partake in the gift of eternal life. This inclusive nature of salvation counters the exclusivity that sometimes characterizes religious doctrines and emphasizes the impartiality of divine love.

The paradoxical nature of salvation challenges believers to navigate the tension between the costliness of redemption and the freeness of its offer. It calls for a profound appreciation of the gravity of sin and the depth of divine love. Moreover, it inspires gratitude and humility, as individuals recognize their inability to save themselves and acknowledge the unmerited favor extended to them.

The paradox of salvation encapsulates the mystery of divine love and justice. The costliness of redemption, paid for by the crucifixion of Jesus, underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for a sacrificial atonement. Simultaneously, the free offer of salvation challenges human notions of deserving and invites individuals to partake in a gift that transcends earthly value. The paradox invites contemplation, humility, and gratitude, encouraging believers to embrace the mystery of salvation with awe and reverence.

Dear Heavenly Father,

As we reflect upon the profound paradox of salvation – a costly gift freely offered – our hearts are filled with gratitude and reverence. We come before you with humble hearts, acknowledging the depth of your love and the incomprehensible sacrifice made on our behalf.

Thank you, Lord, for the immeasurable cost of salvation paid on the cross through the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ. We recognize the gravity of sin and the divine justice that demanded atonement. In the midst of our unworthiness, you chose to bridge the gap between us with an act of unparalleled love.

We are awestruck by the mystery of grace – the unmerited favor freely given to us. Your invitation to redemption extends beyond our comprehension, reaching out to all, irrespective of our failings and shortcomings. Your love knows no bounds, and your mercy knows no limits.

Thank you, gracious Father, for the universal call to salvation. We stand in awe of your inclusive love, recognizing that we are all recipients of your boundless grace. Your offer of eternal life is not based on our merit but on your unfailing love, and for that, we are truly thankful.

As we conclude this reflection, Lord, we express our gratitude for the paradox that challenges and deepens our faith. May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of your love, and may we respond with lives marked by humility, gratitude, and a deep sense of awe.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, we offer this prayer of thanksgiving.

Amen.

redemption, sacrifice, and belonging

The gospel of Jesus Christ has been described as the greatest story ever told. It is a narrative that transcends time, culture, and creed, resonating with people from all levels of society. At its core, the gospel fulfills some of the most profound and universal human needs: redemption, sacrifice, and belonging. Let us talk about how the gospel addresses these fundamental aspects of the human experience, making it a story like no other.

Redemption is an intrinsic human desire, a craving we have for another chance. We all make mistakes, encounter failures, and wrestle with the weight of our imperfections. The gospel offers a profound message of redemption, telling the story of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice to absolve humanity of its sins. It assures us that, no matter how far we may have strayed from the path of righteousness, there is always hope for renewal and forgiveness.

This theme of redemption is epitomized in the parable of the prodigal son. A young man squanders his inheritance in a life of reckless abandon and eventually returns to his father, broken and remorseful. Instead of condemnation, he is met with open arms and a celebration, symbolizing God’s boundless love and forgiveness. This resonates with people because it reflects our built-in desire for a second chance, an opportunity to start anew, and a path to redemption.

For those who put their faith in Jesus, the message of redemption takes on a deeply personal and transformative meaning. By accepting Jesus as Savior, a believer finds the assurance that his or her sins are forgiven and given the opportunity for spiritual renewal and a restored relationship with God. This faith-driven redemption offers a profound sense of peace and hope, providing a second chance to lead a life in alignment with their spiritual calling.

John 15:13, where Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends,” is a powerful expression of the idea of sacrifice. This statement encapsulates the core message of selfless love and sacrifice that Jesus taught throughout His ministry.

Jesus is emphasizing the supreme act of love and sacrifice, which is laying down one’s life for others. It is a declaration that demonstrates the ultimate value and worthiness of self-sacrifice for the well-being and benefit of one’s friends or loved ones.

 The gospel of Jesus Christ centers around the ultimate act of sacrifice: the crucifixion of Jesus on the cross. This profound act of selflessness showcases a love so deep and unwavering that it is difficult to comprehend fully. The idea that someone would willingly endure such suffering for the sake of others profoundly resonates with our human nature.

The sacrifice of Jesus transcends the physical realm, reaching the depths of our hearts and souls. It teaches us that true love is sacrificial, and it encourages us to be more compassionate, empathetic, and selfless in our own lives. The concept of sacrifice in the gospel exemplifies the inherent longing within humans to connect with a higher purpose and to demonstrate love in its purest form.

Faith in Jesus also deepens the understanding of His sacrificial love. Believers come to recognize that Jesus willingly endured the cross out of love for them, personally. This realization has the power to inspire a more profound sense of love and selflessness in their own lives. By placing their faith in Jesus, individuals are invited to emulate His love through their actions and interactions with others, thus reflecting the transformative nature of faith and its impact on their character.

Belonging is an essential human need. We crave connection and community, and the gospel of Jesus Christ addresses this need in a unique and powerful way. It not only invites individuals into a relationship with God but also into a global community of believers. This sense of belonging provides support, encouragement, and a sense of purpose.

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, beautifully describes the concept of belonging within the context of the body of Christ. He compares the diverse members of the church to various parts of the human body, emphasizing that each member plays a vital role. This analogy underscores the idea that we all belong and are essential to a greater purpose, much like the organs in a body.

Faith in Jesus leads individuals to seek and participate in faith communities where they can find like-minded believers who share in their journey. These communities offer support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that is strengthened through shared beliefs and values. The act of faith not only connects individuals to God but also to a broader community of fellow believers, uniting them under a common purpose.

Moreover, faith in Jesus extends its invitation to individuals regardless of their background, culture, or past mistakes. It emphasizes that the transformative power of faith is available to all who choose to believe. By doing so, it breaks down barriers, fosters unity, and fulfills the universal need for connection and belonging among all those who put their faith in Him.

Faith in Jesus is the key that unlocks the full potential of the gospel’s message. It is through faith that individuals experience the profound aspects of redemption, sacrifice, and belonging on a personal level. The gospel, with faith at its core, offers a path to spiritual renewal, inspires sacrificial love, and connects believers to a global community that shares their journey. For those who put their faith in Jesus, the gospel’s story becomes not only the greatest story ever told but a personal narrative that shapes their lives in meaningful and transformative ways.

Heavenly Father,

As we reflect on the profound message of the gospel and the significance of sacrifice, redemption, and belonging in our lives, we come before you with hearts full of gratitude. We thank you for the greatest story ever told, the story of your Son, Jesus Christ, who demonstrated the ultimate act of love and self-sacrifice.

In our own journeys, may we find inspiration and strength to live out the values of love, compassion, and selflessness. Help us, Lord, to seek redemption and renewal in your grace, to be ever mindful of your sacrifice on the cross, and to extend our love to others as a reflection of your love for us.

As we strive to belong in communities of faith and unity, guide us to build bridges, break down barriers, and create bonds of love and understanding that transcend our differences.

We offer this prayer as an expression of our faith, trust, and commitment to your divine plan. May we walk in the footsteps of Jesus, our Savior, and continue to discover the depths of your love and grace.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

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the greatness of humility

In the book of Isaiah, the Bible offers profound insights into human nature, spirituality, and the consequences of unchecked pride. One of the most notable passages on this subject is found in Isaiah 14:13-14, where the downfall of a powerful figure is described. In these verses, we find a powerful lesson about the dangers of arrogance and the pursuit of greatness at the expense of others.

Isaiah 14:13-14 (NIV) reads:

“You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.'”

To understand these verses fully, we must examine the context in which they are situated. Isaiah 14 as a whole is a prophetic oracle against the king of Babylon, who was a symbol of worldly power and pride. The passage serves as a taunt against this king, highlighting his arrogant aspirations.

The essence of the passage revolves around the dangers of pride. The Babylonian king’s heart is filled with hubris as he seeks to elevate himself to divine status, asserting his authority even above God. These verses remind us that pride is not merely about having self-confidence or a healthy self-esteem; it is about placing oneself above others and even above God. It is a dangerous and destructive attitude.

The king’s ambitions are boundless, wanting to ascend to the heavens, sit above the stars, and be like the Most High. This insatiable desire for more and more power serves as a warning against unchecked ambition. It’s essential to have aspirations and goals, but when they become fueled by pride and a disregard for others, they can lead to downfall.

Comparing oneself to the Most High is the pinnacle of arrogance. It illustrates how pride can lead us to believe we are equal to or even superior to God, which goes against the fundamental principle of humility in spirituality. This comparison reveals the depth of the king’s delusion.

The pursuit of personal greatness at the expense of others is a recurring theme in human history. When individuals or leaders prioritize their own ascent without considering the well-being of those they lead or serve, it can result in suffering and chaos.

Isaiah 14 goes on to describe the consequences of the Babylonian king’s prideful ambitions. It foretells his ultimate downfall and the ruin of his kingdom. The lesson here is clear: pride, especially when it leads to selfish actions, has severe consequences. It may lead to isolation, loss of power, and even destruction.

In contrast to the arrogance portrayed in Isaiah 14:13-14, the Bible teaches us that greatness can be found in living righteous and humble lives. Humility is presented as a virtue throughout the Bible, involving the recognition of our limitations, acknowledging our dependence on God, and treating others with respect and empathy. It is a key element of spiritual growth and harmonious human relationships.

Humility begins with acknowledging our place in the grand scheme of things. Rather than seeking to elevate ourselves above God, we should submit to divine wisdom and guidance. In Matthew 18:1-4 (NIV), Jesus provides a powerful lesson on humility: “At that time, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a little child to him and placed the child among them. And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'”

It’s important to understand that true greatness is not necessarily measured by worldly achievements, power, or recognition. Instead, greatness can be found in leading a righteous and humble life. When we live with compassion, kindness, and integrity, we are already embodying greatness. Acts of kindness, empathy, and selflessness towards others are the marks of a truly great person.

By recognizing that greatness is not solely defined by external accolades or accomplishments, we can shift our focus towards the virtues that truly matter. Living a righteous and humble life is an inherently great endeavor, as it contributes to the well-being of others and the betterment of our world. In our pursuit of spiritual growth and a meaningful life, let us remember that true greatness lies in the daily choices we make to live with humility and righteousness, impacting the lives of those around us positively.

Rather than seeking to elevate ourselves above others, we can aspire to uplift and support one another, recognizing that in living righteous and humble lives, we are already great. By aligning our values with compassion, kindness, and empathy, we contribute to a world filled with genuine greatness, one where the pursuit of righteousness and humility leads us to the highest form of fulfillment and spiritual growth.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before you today with humble hearts, seeking wisdom and understanding. Thank you for the lessons we find in your Word which reminds us of the dangers of pride and the importance of humility.

Lord, we acknowledge that at times, we may be tempted by the allure of greatness in the eyes of the world. Help us remember that true greatness is not measured by worldly achievements or power but by the love, compassion, and humility we show to others. May we strive to live righteous and humble lives, recognizing that in doing so, we are already great in your eyes.

Teach us to submit to your guidance and wisdom. Help us become like little children, eager to learn and willing to take the lowly position of a servant. May we find strength in our humility, knowing that it is through humility that we draw closer to you.

Lord, grant us the wisdom to intentionally put ourselves in positions of humility, to seek opportunities to serve others, and to embrace the humility that comes from recognizing our dependence on you.

As we navigate our journey through life, may we be vessels of your love and instruments of your peace. May our actions reflect your grace and mercy, and may our lives be grounded in righteousness and humility.

We pray for the strength to resist the temptations of pride and arrogance and to instead follow the path of humility and righteousness that leads us closer to you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

want a friend? be friendly

The Bible has a lot to say about friendship. It tells us how to be a good friend;

1 Thessalonians 5:11

11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Why having the right friends is important:

1 Corinthians 15:33

33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

It tells us about the many benefits of friendship:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.

Friendship is a vital part of human existence. It is a bond that connects us to others, enriches our lives, and helps us navigate through the ups and downs of life. The importance of friendship is often overlooked, but it is a fundamental part of our well-being and happiness.

One of the greatest benefits of friendship is the sense of belonging and connection it brings. Having a friend means that we have someone who understands us, accepts us for who we are, and is there for us in both good times and bad. Friendships provide a sense of security and comfort, knowing that we have someone to turn to in times of need.

Friendship also helps us to grow and learn. Through our interactions with friends, we learn new perspectives, develop empathy, and expand our understanding of the world around us. A good friend will challenge us to be our best selves and push us to reach our goals. They will also be there to celebrate our successes and support us when we fall short.

Another important aspect of friendship is the sense of fun and enjoyment it brings. Friendships are built on shared experiences and memories, and these memories can be some of the most cherished moments of our lives. Whether it’s a spontaneous road trip, a day of laughter playing games, friends create memories that last a lifetime.

Friendship is also a powerful tool for self-discovery. Through our interactions with friends, we learn more about ourselves and what we value. We can explore our interests, passions and goals with friends, and they can often provide valuable insights and advice. Friendships also give us the opportunity to try new things and step out of our comfort zones.

However, friendships are not always easy. Conflicts and disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, and it is important to learn how to navigate these challenges. A good friend will be able to communicate openly and honestly, and will be willing to work through any issues that may arise.

The beauty of friendship is that it can come in many forms. It can be a bond between two people, a group of friends, or even a community. The key is to find people who share your values, interests, and goals. It is also important to remember that friendships can develop at any stage of life, and it’s never too late to make new friends.

In conclusion, friendship is an essential part of life. It brings a sense of belonging, connection, growth, and joy. Friendships help us navigate the complexities of life and provide us with valuable support and guidance. It is important to cherish and nurture our friendships, and to be open to making new friends. Remember, a true friend is a treasure and a gift, and it is a privilege to have them in our lives.

Lord I thank you for the many friends that you have given me during my life. Each of them was a unique blessing to me. Please bless them today as they blessed me. Continue to provide me with the friends that I need. Friends that will encourage me, help me, and add something vital to my experience on this earth.

Help me to be a good friend as well. Let me be an encouragement to some. Help me to bear the burdens of others. Make me into the good friend that someone needs today. Amen

Be the answer to someone’s prayer

Do you ever think about how God answers our prayers? I know that I do. I do so because I get asked quite often to pray for or about a person or situation. After I pray for something or someone I will monitor the situation or circumstance as at I am able because I really like to know how my prayers are being answered. I think that is reasonable and I think also that lots of other people do,the same thing. We all ought to be looking for our prayers to be answered because that is one of the best ways we can build up our witness.

God uses people to answer prayers.

A lot of times my prayers are for people or situations that are far away from me and so my prayers are often a request that God move someone “over there” to act on behalf of whatever I am praying about. It occurs to me that there are likely people far from me making the same kind of prayers about people or situations near to me. In that case there is a possibility that God may try to move me to be the answer to that prayer.

God uses people to answer prayers because it build faith and testimony in three different people. In the one praying, the one answering, and the one for whom the prayer was offered.

For the believer being a co-laborer with God in these situations is privelage that is not to be taken lightly. Being an answer to prayer may take courage or boldness. It may include the possibility of persecution or danger. It could expose you to difficult circumstances. It could even lead to emotion or spiritual stress. But along with these come certain blessing and great joy a well.

If you want to be used by God as the answer to someone else’s prayer (and you should) there are a few things you’d better know because while He is sovereign and can use anyone he prefers to use the qualified. So what makes one qualified?

First you must be available. If you are self absorbed paying attention only to yourself and your concerns it will be hard for you to be used purposefully by God. Selfishness is a barrier to a meaningful prayer life. It is something that God dispises. Paul reminds us in Romans 12 that we are to offer ourselves as a living sacrifice as our duty to God. We are to lay ourselves on the altar and by doing so we become ready for his use. The word to use here is holy, that is set aside for his purposes. Again Paul says in his letter to Timothy that a vessel that is to be used for honorable purposes must be clean.

Second you must be listening. God speaks to us in any number of ways so in order to be used we ought to be paying close attention to Him. We need to be praying. Remember that prayer is a two way conversation with God. All too often we get so caught up in our requests that we forget to be listening. We forget to pause and give Him a chance to say something to us. He also speaks to,us through His word so keep reading scripture. This is the best way to understand His mind and ways. He will also speak to you through the people around you so pay attention and be sensitive when talking to others. Be a good listener.

Finally you must be willing. God is a gentleman. He won’t force you to do things. He may make it difficult to refuse. He may use circumstances or hardship to help you understand His will but you always get the option to opt out. Like Malachi told Ester you if you refuse God will find another way for His will to be achieved but you will miss out on the blessings that would have been yours.

What an honor we have as believers to be workers in God’s kingdom. Don’t be so self-interested that you miss the opportunities out there to be His answer to someone’s plea for help. Don’t miss the blessings that are to be yours because you are unavailable or unwilling to answer the call when it comes to you. Your testimony is your best witness and your testimony comes by answered prayers.