How to cope when you’re overlooked

God's timing

Arabic

It’s hard when you’re waiting for God to use you. No-one likes being overlooked.

And it really tests your attitudes when he uses other people instead – especially when they not as suitable or as well qualified as you are!

But Jesus faced the same problem.

In Matthew 4, he heard about John the Baptist’s execution. And verse 17 says: ‘From that time on, Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

Now, that was John’s message, word for word.

But Jesus had to wait until John died before it was his turn to preach it.

He could have pushed his cousin aside and told him: ‘I’m the Son of God. Leave it to me.’

But he wasn’t a me-first Messiah. He knew that God’s timing was perfect, and that John’s mission was important.

In the same way, you may have to wait while someone else delivers the message that God gave you.

During that time, God will prepare you. He’ll test your attitudes and develop your character for the challenges ahead.

It may be tough, but remember, Jesus went through it too.

Cleland Thom

Cleland helps lead Freedom Church, a praying community based in the UK.