Simple Gifts

Playing to One Conductor

TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman

11-09-2011

"The eye cannot say to the hand, 'I don't need you!' And the head cannot say to the feet, 'I don't need you!' On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor" (1 Cor 12:21-23).


I watched as the conductor looked over to the violin section, then the percussion, then there was a seemingly insignificant lady standing way back in the corner waiting to play her one or two notes on a chime-looking instrument. "Who would even notice if she didn't play her instrument?" I wondered to myself. "The conductor would," said the still voice in my spirit.


An orchestra is a great picture of the way the Body of Christ should operate. It is made up of different people with different gifts, all being led by the one Great Conductor, telling us when to use our gift in the right time. I am sure the lady in the back of the room who only plays a few notes must think she doesn't measure up to the great violinist who sits right up close to the conductor.


However, imagine if you slowly removed each member of the orchestra, one at a time. At first you may not notice any difference without a trained ear. But as you remove each member of the orchestra, you will begin to miss the powerful and melodic sound of many instruments playing together. Finally, when all but a few of the instruments are removed, you notice a big difference in the sound and the void left from key instruments.


Imagine if these instruments tried to go out and play songs all by themselves. Imagine if the tuba tried to play a solo. Or the oboe did the same. You get the idea.


Every member of the Body of Christ matters. Every job matters to God and contributes to our great Conductor's grand plan to fulfill His purposes on the earth. Your contribution matters to God and has no hierarchy of importance.


Play your instrument to the glory of God in unison with the other instruments God has raised up for His purposes.


Today's Prayer


Father, When I remember the story of Joseph's life, I realize how you want so much more for me than I could ever dream of. I also see how you can turn what man means for evil into what you mean for good. Please bring this to my mind whenever I'm feeling doubt and confusion; whenever I'm feeling oppressed and alone; whenever I'm feeling unjustly treated; whenever I think that I don't have something I need. I know that you are in control. I pray that I will always allow you to do your work and that I will not interfere in your plans for me. Please give me strength and fill me with your desires for me. Thank you, loving Father. In Jesus' name, amen

 Today God Is First (TGIF) devotional message, Copyright by Os Hillman, Marketplace Leaders.

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