For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. (Rom 12:3)
Sometimes when God uses you it’s tempting to get a little puffed up about it. I mean, you can do something that really comes off well and so make an impression on others. People can be so complimentary and say how great you are and sometimes you can believe your own press. Then there’s that tendency to get a little inflated and think you’re someone special. Watch out!
One of the things that God reminds me of when I get puffed up like this is that He can use a donkey to do his business if He wants to! That’s right. You remember the Old Testament story where Balaam was beating his donkey and the donkey spoke and Balaam realized the animal was trying to save his life? (Num 22). Now if God can use a donkey He can use me! That sobers me indeed and keeps the hot air out of my chest. You see, I need to know God doesn’t use me because of me . . . He uses me in spite of me. And when that realization dawns on me I want to breathe a prayer something like this:
“Oh Lord, keep me from getting puffed up when you use me. Thank you for the awesome privilege of being a vessel of honor. Keep me from messing things up and may You get all the glory for all You do in and through my life!”
Louie