Playing On Purpose By Pete BriscoeSample

Same Tune, Different Instruments

No one has ever become poor by giving. — Anne Frank, The Diary of Anne Frank

It’s overwhelming, isn’t it? If being an instrument of God means helping the helpless, then where do we start? Needs are everywhere!

Some of you are wondering if you should get your spouse on board because you’re pretty sure you need to sell the house, cash out your retirement, find a mission overseas, and pack your bags.

Maybe the Spirit will lead you that way. But let me ask you this: What happens to the helpless who are left behind?

The needs are too great for just one person to meet.

But Jesus never said our purpose was to help every single helpless person.

“I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah’s time… Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the region of Sidon.” (Luke 4:25-26)

Lots of widows—lots of helpless people—and Elijah was sent to one. One great prophet was sent to one widow who needed help.

Take a deep breath and let that soak in. You’re not called to help every single helpless person. You’re called to be God’s instrument, making yourself available so He can play His tune through you when He chooses.

How does Jesus want you to do this? That gets to the heart of your personal purpose. And that answer will look different as Christ expresses Himself in each one of our lives.

He’s going to ask some of you to release financial resources. Others will develop ideas for benevolent businesses. Some will leave home and live among people in need of help in other places. But all will need courage as you grant the Spirit permission to live through you.

It’s the same tune, different instruments. Because in the hands of the Master, the people of Christ are His Spirit-led orchestra.

Masterful Father, I’m no longer paralyzed by the overwhelming need or the guilt of not helping everyone. Instead, I ask for sensitivity toward the people who enter my life. Speak through me so I ask the right questions. Allow my ears to identify the need. Open my hands to release Your gift. Inspire me with Your creativity! Amen.

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Reflection:

1. What is your primary calling and purpose in life?
2. In what ways did Jesus provide help for the helpless?
3. How is the Holy Spirit prompting you to express Christ’s Life as your personal purpose?