Making A Difference

“And of some have compassion, making a difference.” - Jude 22

Our world is in such dire need at this hour. People are hurting. So many are struggling. Doubts, fears, confusion and chaos have unsettled our nation. Rather than working together to find solutions, we are pointing fingers and issuing accusations.

The American Church doesn't seem to be making a positive difference these days. A great deal of this problem lies at our door. The American Church is not what she ought to be. Churches are plagued with sin, scandals and in-fighting. To the outside world, the American Church seems to merely exist for non-essential gatherings. We have ceased to be the spiritual influence we once were.

How can the American Church make a positive difference once again? More to the point, how can you and I make such a difference? Let me recommend a few things.

1. REPENT

First of all, there needs to be repentance. Selfishness has permeated the lives of many American Christians. It is easy to get sucked into this world's mold of materialism, self-admiration and self-promotion. Idols reside where God should reign. There are temptations and distractions to keep a Christian from where he or she should be.

We look at others with a self-righteous attitude while failing to grasp the serious sins that we tolerate and hide in our own lives. Repentance is the first step to be used by God. Until He makes a positive difference in us, we can never be used to make the positive difference we have been called to make.

2. REMEMBER

Secondly, we need remember that is God, not us, that really makes the difference. When we become important or great in our own estimation, we are not fit for the Master's use. God is the difference maker, not us. When we recognize His power and our inadequacies, we are ready to humbly submit to His will.

3. REVERENCE

Next, we need to reverence God and His Name. If any positive difference occurs in us or through us, may we never take the credit. It is easy to become proud and arrogant. Some in ministry are so arrogant that they could strut sitting down! God doesn't need us, but we desperately need Him. If He chooses to use us in any way, may we have the common sense to honor Him and give Him glory.

4. RESPOND

Finally, we need to respond to needs around us. The temptation is to desire some huge project for God. However, often the most opportunities come in small ways. Don't despise these small opportunities. Don't seek after situations that bring the spotlight on yourself. Ministry in obscurity is neglected by many. Yet it could be that God will use you more in obscurity than anywhere else. Don't seek the applause of men but the approval of God. Be faithful in the small things. Whether God ever brings huge opportunities your way or not, keep operating in obedience to things you know to do. Perhaps your faithfulness in the small things will lead to larger opportunities. Whether they do or not, simply focus on today's work, though it be small or large. God uses those who simply serve out of love for Him and don't care about getting credit or praise.

Everything begins with God making a difference in you. In gratitude for His love and grace, offer yourself to His service, whether it be great or small, in obscurity or in the limelight, in sickness or health. A. W. Tozer once said, “It is doubtful that God will ever use a man greatly until he hurts the man deeply.” Tozer points out the truth that pain is often the path to usefulness. If you want to be used of God to make a difference, it may lead you to deep, dark valleys. Regardless, keep loving God and stay faithful to Him.

Do you want God to use you to make a difference?