What is in your Hand?

The Philistines were fully equipped soldiers. They had chariots and weapons made of iron. The Israelites were just poor farmers.

Perhaps you are also faced with terrible challenges. We can learn something from ordinary people in the Bible story.

After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an ox goad. He too saved Israel.  Jdg 3:31 NIV

Shamgar was determined to defend his land and his inheritance. He had only one weapon, a long spear made of wood with a point to prick and drive oxen.

Shamgar was not a trained soldier, but he used what he had.

Moses was just a shepherd in the desert. God commissioned him to lead the enslaved Hebrews out of captivity.

How did Moses respond?

But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” Ex 3:11 NIV

We are like Moses back then. We read that Jesus is calling us Christians to continue his mission on this earth.

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Mt 28:18–20 NIV

How do we react? Often just like Moses.
Who am I?

And how did God respond to Moses?

Then the LORD said to him, “What is that in your hand?” “A staff,” he replied. Ex 4:2 NIV

What is in your hand?

A couple in South Africa wanted to save lost people, but they were not evangelists themselves. A great evangelist visited their town.

What was in the hands of these ordinary people? They were not billionaires, but they had a bank account.

They withdrew the money in their bank account. Then they went to the prostitutes on the street and paid the young women for their time when they came to the event so they would hear the sermon.

Many of the young prostitutes heard God's message and converted to Jesus. 

Who are you?

Probably no Billy Graham or Reinhard Bonnke either, but you have something in your hand.

You have a mobile phone or a laptop. You have an internet account and a car.

• Who can you call? Who can you visit or invite?

• Who can you encourage?

• God loves you immeasurably.

• He is waiting for your reaction, for your love.

But God's love is practical. What can you do for God? 

What is in your hand?