USE IT – or LOSE IT

After the first of the year, Pastor Brian did a series entitled “Thrive.” At the end of the series final week we were given, “God, Use Me” cards as reminders to be willing to be used for God’s service. God can do the impossible, but he frequently uses the Body of Christ to be the conduit through which his miracles flow.

I took a card home knowing the likelihood of me using it were slim. I’m a homebody – my behavior is borderline agoraphobic. I don’t meet people on a daily basis. I prefer God to use me through my most comfortable outlet – my computer. As a writer, I ask God to give me written words that will influence people for the cause of Christ.

Life behind a computer keyboard is my comfort zone. I’m a social misfit who argues whenever God pushes me out of my wheelhouse. I want to be used by God, but according to MY parameters.

A few weeks ago, I left the house for errands. As is my habit, I talk to God whenever I’m alone in the car. Putting the car into “Drive,” I noticed the God, Use Me card I’d left in the coin cubby. I thought, what the heck and asked God to put someone in my path who I could encourage with either a smile or kind word. Use Me, God— again, my parameters – not God’s.

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. John 15:16 (ESV)

Nearing the end of my Walmart trip, I was in the Dairy aisle when I overhead a young woman, arm’s laden with several brands of yogurt, asking an elderly couple’s advice. My ears piqued at the mention of the word “points.”

Decades of Weight Watchers lifetime membership and a stint as a WW Leader/Receptionist, I gently inserted myself into their conversation. I suggested some WW friendly snacks to the threesome which was well received by the couple, who quickly left to finish their shopping.

The young woman remained though, and we ended up talking for 30 minutes. Within the span of a few minutes, I learned this young woman was deep in the throes of depression caused from the loss of a stillborn baby. In the past year she’d eaten her way through grief, gaining 100 pounds. I shared my vast knowledge of Weight Watchers, but also a brief history of my struggles with depression, obesity and eating my way through my mother’s death years ago.

Throughout our conversation I shared how God had helped me through my battles by using my church and my small group friends. We finally parted ways after exchanging phone numbers – but not before I slipped her a card from my six-pack (BAM!) and invited her to church.

My shopping completed, I sat in my car and cried over the goodness of God. He’d immediately answered my “Use Me” prayer, but did it by allowing me to talk about things I’m most passionate about: weight struggles, battling depression and my love of Jesus.

I know prayers aren’t always answered so quickly. I did my part though, by my willingness to be used. I’ve had no success contacting this woman since, but perhaps my job was simply to plant the seed – not water it.

No matter though – God Used ME, proving yet again, with God – anything is possible!

Blessings in Christ,
Kathy K.