Great Aspirations

"The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." -1 Thessalonians 5:24

Have you ever wanted to do something great for God? You know, something great like being a gifted Bible teacher, a talented Christian singer or an inspirational evangelist? I did, but as a young mother living in a remote rural area with two small children and one on the way, I couldn't imagine how. I wanted my life to count for God, but for the most part, no one knew I even existed. Our single income left our family with one vehicle for my husband to get to work. I was isolated and made irregular trips into town for groceries, library books and church activities. Most of my days were consumed with simply homeschooling, cleaning house and caring for my family. "Not much opportunity to do great things for God," I thought to myself as I prepared for another homeschooling day after my morning devotions.

As the years went on and I studied the Scriptures more in-depth, I noticed an amazing fact. More often than not, God used the ordinary lives of men and women to accomplish His will. Mary, the mother of Jesus, was just an average, obedient teenager. Ruth, the great-grandmother of David, was a hardworking daughter-in-law, and Gideon, one of Israel's greatest judges, was the least in his father's house. Even several of the disciples were simple fishermen with humble beginnings. Like mine, all these lives were insignificant and obscure, but God used them in miraculous ways to do great things.

Are you wondering if your life would have more meaning if you gave up homeschooling to pursue something more worthy for the Lord? Don't let Satan deceive you with his lies. Although you may feel like your life is mundane and serving no great purpose, God is giving you the greatest opportunity to impact the world right where you are. As you faithfully homeschool your children, not only will their lives be forever changed by the truths of God's Word, but great things will happen as countless others may come to know the Lord through their future witness. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time." (1 Peter 5:6)

💮Father, only You can take the ordinary and make it extraordinary. Take my life and our homeschooling, and use them however they will give you the most glory. In Jesus' name, amen.

-Taken from Homeschool Mom's Bible; devotions by Janet Tatman; p. 855

I have felt at times like the author of this devotion. I love this reminder that homeschooling is indeed a valuable use of my time and gifts. It has kingdom value. I will "press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." -Philippians 3:14