Set aside or set apart

Many years ago, two of our very dear friends started a ministry to reach out to troubled youth. God used it, and them, to affect the lives of broken teens and to build into the lives of men and women who joined the ministry. Today, many people are serving the Lord as a result of Len's and Jean's obedience to step out and do something that was revolutionary in its day.

After 20 years, their ministry came to an end. But our friendship, which has lasted for more than 35 years, has continued. We've shared victories and what seemed like defeats - tears and laughter alike.

Early this morning, Jim and I enjoyed a wonderful visit with those dear friends. And I asked the question, "Since the ministry ended, have you ever felt set aside?"

My friend replied, "Yes, at first. But soon I realized that ministry has nothing to do with programs or where I am physically. Instead, it has to do with people. God has shown me that there are still a lot of hurting people and that I can still be His effectual servant."

As we talked, Jean shared about the prayer ministry God has given her and some of the answers to prayer that have made life-changing differences in the lives of the people.

Today, God uses my friend's heart-for-the-wounded to pray for those who desperately need His intervention. She firmly believes that God uses us - whether we're on the front lines in the thick of things, or feeling scared "spitless" at the unknown, or obediently and quietly listening for His prompting to pray "now."

All the way home, I thought about our conversation and I marveled at God's goodness. First, that He blessed me with a friend who is a prayer warrior. And, second, that in God's mind, there is no such thing as "being set aside" unless we choose to be there.

Bringing it home - Do you feel like you're being set aside? Think again. What does He have for you where you are right now?
God bless you this week.

Ann Griffiths