The Bible provides real-life testimonies of folks who were considered the “least”, but they were chosen and used by God to accomplish greater works. Gideon was from the weakest tribe and the least of his family. God used him to restore the people’s covenant relationship with God and to overthrow thousands of enemies with only 300 valiant men (Judges 6).
Josiah was eight-years old when he became king of Judah. He ruled 31 years in Jerusalem and was instrumental in purging idolatry worship from Judah and Jerusalem (2 Kings 23).
God chose Deborah to be a judge over Israel during the worst time of their sin and disobedience. She later became a military advisor and leader to Barak (Judges 4). Deborah gave Barak the marching plan to achieve victory over their enemies. But Barak told Deborah, “I’m not going to battle unless you go with me!” (Judges 4:8). Deborah told Barak that she would go with him, but the victory would be credited to a woman. I can see Barak in my spiritual imagination saying, “I’m ok with that.” His response was not the response of a weak man, but a WISE man. He took no consideration of her gender. He knew that Deborah was a woman with stubborn faith in God and she was a woman of integrity.
As I reflect on the folks God used to further His kingdom plan, it appears that most of the people were “least “and “less fortunate.” If you study the trend, you will discover that it was a diversity of nationalities and genders. What if Barak would have said, “Woman…. who are you to tell me how to run my battle plan!” NOTE to self: “Pride comes before destruction and haughty spirit before the fall” (Proverbs 16:18).
God’s labors for His harvest must include a diverse group of people. Too often, we miss the opportunity to witness God’s miraculous blessings because we choose laborers based on race, gender, title, marital and financial status, and popularity. Of course, there must be a standard to facilitate order and structure within the community. There is an old saying, “A body with two heads is a monster.” Order and structure can only be obtained when hearts abide in Christ and everyone’s goal is to glorify God.
Consider the following when choosing co-laborers to work with you:
1. Be open minded to the “least” of people.
2. Be wise about your decisions.
3. Don't be prideful.
4. Don’t allow a person’s popularity or status to influence your choice.
5. Consider their character and track record.
6. Don’t scratch them off your list just because of their gender or color.
7. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your heart.
8. Always remember that someone took a chance on you. Now pay it forward.
For His glory...
Written by Sandra Kelley (8/3/2024)
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