by Shannon Wagers
For the last several weeks the senior minister at my church, Brad Wilson, has unpacked what it looks like to be a “Difference Maker.” To read any of his teachings in this timely series, you can check out this link here.
It’s natural for all of us to feel challenged, inspired, and ultimately wonder how we can make a difference too. The Bible is full of examples of ordinary people who, despite their imperfections, ran towards God and made a significant difference in the world. Their stories remind us that our weaknesses and flaws don’t have to hold us back from doing great things for God. In fact, they can become the very platforms that showcase his incredible power and love. So, if you’re feeling inspired to take a next step, know that God is with you every step of the way.
Make a Shift
Right from the start, the Bible throws a curveball at our preconceived notions of what it takes to be qualified or worthy to be a Difference Maker.
In fact, in 1 Corinthians 1:26-30, the apostle Paul reminds us that when God called us, we weren’t necessarily the best of the best in the eyes of the world:
“Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God.
God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin” (NLT).
This passage of Scripture exclaims that God works through those who may seem unlikely candidates, such as the “foolish,” the “powerless,” and the “despised.” This shift in perspective serves as a reminder that God’s ways are not always the same as ours, and that his power is most evident in our moments of weakness (see 2 Corinthians 12:9).
You may not feel like you have the most wisdom, power, or wealth, but know that God has a different perspective. He chooses those whom the world may consider foolish to show up those who think they are wise. He selects the powerless to humble the powerful. And even the things that the world may despise or consider worthless can be used for something great in God’s plan. The best part is that we can never boast in front of God because it’s not about us. It’s about God’s wisdom and his ultimate plan for us.
Let’s remember that we are united with Christ Jesus and that God made him to be wisdom itself for our benefit. Maybe you need to be reminded of this fact today: You are valued and loved by God, and he has a specific purpose in mind for you. That’s incredible, isn’t it?
Flawed, Yet Faithful
The Old Testament is filled with stories that highlight the incredible power of individuals who obeyed God despite their flaws. Take, for example, Abraham and Sarah, who battled with doubt and impatience, yet went on to become the parents of entire nations. Although Abraham initially questioned the possibility of having a child in his old age (Genesis 17:17) and Sarah even laughed at the idea (Genesis 18:12), their human limitations did not stop God from fulfilling his promise in his own perfect timing. This serves as a powerful reminder that our doubts cannot limit God’s faithfulness.
Similarly, Moses is a shining example of a true difference maker who turned to God for guidance. Despite his initial hesitation due to his speech impediment (Exodus 4:10), Moses went on to become a fearless leader who liberated the Israelites from bondage and led them towards the Promised Land. His journey is a powerful demonstration of the fact that God’s call is not hindered by our insecurities; rather, it empowers us to overcome them with his unwavering strength.
The New Testament showcases the incredible power of Jesus to transform lives. Take Simon Peter, despite his impulsive nature and fear-driven denial of Jesus (Matthew 26:69-75), he became a foundational figure in the early church. His transformation is proof of the redemptive power of Christ’s forgiveness and grace.
And then there’s Paul, whose journey from persecutor to preacher is nothing short of remarkable. Once a fervent opponent of Christianity, his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus marked a radical transformation (Acts 9:1-19). His subsequent mission and prolific writings are a testament to the profound impact of encountering God’s grace and truth.
Embracing Our Role as Difference Makers
And that leads to us today. We don’t have to be perfect to come to God with our doubts and weaknesses. In fact, our imperfections are used by God to do some incredible things. When we look at all the problems in the world today, it can be overwhelming. But that’s exactly where we come in! We can be the ones who make a difference by embracing our weaknesses and asking God for help. When we do that, we become vessels of hope and healing in a world that desperately needs it. So, don’t be afraid to be imperfect—God already knows it, and he chooses to use you just the way you are!
Here are some practical steps you can take towards being a Difference Maker:
- Believe in God’s Forgiveness: Remember Peter and Paul’s stories and know that God’s forgiveness can change your life. Accept his grace and let it transform you.
- Ask God for Help: Like Moses, ask God for guidance in everything you do. Trust that his plans are better than yours (see Proverbs 3:5, 6).
- Demonstrate Love and Kindness: Be kind to everyone, especially those who are hurting or feeling left out. This is what Jesus did when he was on earth.
- Be Honest About Your Weaknesses: Don’t hide your weaknesses. Instead, pray to God and ask for his help and strength.
- Share Your Story: Tell others about how you turned to God and how he changed your life. Your story can inspire others who are struggling.
Take a moment to reflect on what we have heard in the Difference Maker series. What’s your next step? What’s keeping you from taking that step? May God empower you today to be a Difference Maker!
Shannon Wagers is a Corporate Trainer and Master Facilitator for Procter and Gamble. Shannon resides in Liberty Township with his wife Ruth, daughter Katherine, and dog Bear.