But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. – 1 Corinthians 1:27
God’s Choice of Ordinary People
In our daily lives, we often look for extraordinary qualities in individuals, believing that only the gifted or powerful can lead us or make a difference. The beautiful truth is that God chooses ordinary people to fulfill His divine purposes. This means that every one of us has the potential to be used by God, regardless of our background or abilities. When we look through the pages of scripture, we see how God called those who might not seem impressive by worldly standards and empowered them to do remarkable things. This highlights God’s strength in our weakness and His ability to use ordinary lives for His extraordinary work.
Exodus 3:10
“So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” – Exodus 3:10
Judges 6:15
“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” – Judges 6:15
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'” – 1 Samuel 16:7
Matthew 11:25
“At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.'” – Matthew 11:25
Acts 4:13
“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and took note that these men had been with Jesus.” – Acts 4:13
God’s Call to the Unqualified
Sometimes, we may feel unqualified or inadequate for the tasks that God places before us. It is comforting to know that God sees beyond our self-doubt. Throughout the Bible, we read about God calling people who thought they could never succeed. God specializes in taking those who feel they have nothing to offer and transforms them into vessels of His grace and truth. We can take heart in knowing that with God’s call comes His equipping and enabling, empowering us to fulfill His plans and share His love.
Jeremiah 1:6-7
“Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.” – Jeremiah 1:6-7
Isaiah 6:8
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!'” – Isaiah 6:8
1 Corinthians 12:4-6
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.” – 1 Corinthians 12:4-6
Romans 12:6-8
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement…” – Romans 12:6-8
2 Timothy 1:9
“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.” – 2 Timothy 1:9
The Impact of Ordinary People
God’s power is not limited to those who hold titles or positions that the world values. Great change often comes through ordinary people who are willing to make themselves available to God. By sharing our stories, expressing our faith, and embracing the calling God has placed on our lives, we can inspire others and be instruments of His love and truth. It’s amazing to think that we might impact the lives of others just by being faithful in small tasks and showing love in simple ways.
John 4:39
“Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I ever did.'” – John 4:39
Mark 12:41-44
“Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.” – Mark 12:41-44
Luke 8:1-3
“After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others.” – Luke 8:1-3
Acts 9:36
“In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which, when translated, is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.” – Acts 9:36
Philippians 1:3-5
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5
God Working Through Our Weaknesses
As ordinary people, we face various challenges and weaknesses. At times, we may feel like we have nothing to offer God, but it is in these moments that He is most powerful. God’s grace is perfect in our weakness, reminding us that it is not by our might or strength, but by His Spirit that all things are accomplished. By embracing our limitations, we allow God to work through us and show His power in our lives.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Romans 5:3-4
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:3-4
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
1 Peter 5:10
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” – 1 Peter 5:10
Faithfulness in Ordinary Life
Being an ordinary person does not mean living an insignificant life. Each day is an opportunity for us to be faithful in our tasks and relationships. God delights in our everyday faithfulness. When we honor Him where we are, we make room for His glory to shine through us, causing others to notice and ask about the hope within us. Through our simple acts of kindness, service, and love, we can reflect God’s light to those around us.
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
God’s Use of Ordinary People in the Church
In our communities and churches, God continues to work through ordinary people like us. Each member plays a unique role in building up the body of Christ. When we come together in unity and love, we create a vibrant church community that reflects God’s love to the world. Our contributions, no matter how small they seem, are significant in God’s eyes. Together, we can accomplish God’s mission to reach those who are lost.
Ephesians 4:16
“From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” – Ephesians 4:16
1 Corinthians 12:27
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:27
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Hebrews 13:16
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:16
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on how God uses ordinary people brings encouragement to all of us. We might feel like we aren’t significant or powerful enough to make an impact, but the Bible reveals that God sees great value in each of us. Through scripture, we are reminded that God chooses those who are often overlooked to fulfill His amazing plans. It’s about our willingness to say yes to God and allow Him to work through us.
As followers of Christ, we should embrace our unique roles and let our light shine in every aspect of our lives. Let’s be faithful in our routines and open our hearts to God’s call, no matter how ordinary we may feel. Together, we can transform lives and build a strong community that reflects God’s love.
For those who wish to explore more about fulfilling God’s purpose, consider checking out the bible verses about fulfilling God’s purpose or bible verses about fulfilling God’s plan. Let’s continue to grow together in faith!