Stories of people making a difference in the lives of others are so inspirational. They are everywhere – television shows, news stories and radio spots all about these amazing people…so many who change lives through their actions and deeds. Every time I encounter one of these stories I am touched and motivated to go out and do the same.
But then I stop short.
I can’t make that kind of difference!
It can be easy to stop there, believing that since I may never be able to impact the world with my difference, I am unimportant and shouldn’t even try.
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
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 NIV
We may not ever be in the news for the differences we make. But the reality is that we don’t always know the difference we are making in someone’s life when we allow God to reach through us. When we dismiss our abilities and the way the Holy Spirit can work in our lives because we don’t think they are important enough we are tying God’s hands and hindering Him from blessing people through us. Whatever gifts we are given God can and will use when we release them to Him.
Still convinced that you don’t have gifts that God can use? Let me ask you a few questions…
1. Can you pray? Our prayers have more impact than we will ever know, at least this side of Heaven. When we offer a prayer for a friend, family member, or even a stranger we release the power of God through the Holy Spirit to work in their life. Your prayer may be the lifeline for someone who feel they have no strength to go on.
2. Can you smile? Think about the difference it makes in your day when someone smiles at you and is pleasant as you interact. You can make that kind of difference too!
3. Can you write/type? The art of letter/note writing is fading fast. It is fun to get an encouraging note via “snail mail”, but whether you handwrite a note or use e-mail or Facebook to deliver your message, saying, “hi” and letting someone know you are thinking of and praying for them can make a difference.
Some days we are blessed by being told of the difference we are making in our little corner of the world. But even when we aren’t,we need to trust that God is at work in us and through us when we allow Him. The ultimate reward will be when we stand before Him one day and hear:
‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness! Matthew 25:21 NIV
Go make a difference today and every day!!
Paula
Paula Davis 
This is great!!
I know many who will benefit from reading this.
Sending a smile from me to you.