God is not limited

That the surpassing power may be of God and not from us

Pirates store their treasure in chests bound with chains and heavy padlocks. Banks store cash in high-security vaults. But God? He places his treasure in “earthen vessels”.  In us! He does not need chains and locks, laser beams or retina scans, to protect it. He does not lock it up because he trusts in the power of his grace to strengthen and transform the vessels so that his treasure can rest secure. Look at St. James as an example.

James was an ordinary fisherman. Strong, passionate, and simply educated—how could he ever take on the responsibilities that Jesus wanted to give him? But he did. The same reckless James who wanted to call fire down on a group of Samaritans became the head of the Jerusalem church. The same scheming James who connived with his brother to seek a special seat in Jesus’ kingdom eventually became the first apostle to be martyred.

Why James

At first blush, you would not pick James to be a leader of the Church—especially not as the Church was beginning to include outsiders. He probably had little idea at first how to help Jewish and Gentile believers come together and form one body in Christ. But he allowed God to change him. He stepped out in faith and gave God the opportunity to teach him and shape his heart.

God is not limited by what you think you can do for him. He has dreams for you that surpass your expectations. Just keep coming to him every day, and ask him to guide you. Over time, your path will become clear.

Remember: God always begins where your human ability ends. If you think he has called you to reach out to someone you find it difficult to be in the same room with, tell him. He will supply the patience you need. If you need to keep serving your family when you’re bone tired, he has strength for you. Even if you’re too scared to do anything at all, tell him. He will help you. Take just one step, and watch him take it with you.

word among us