Left-Handed Compliment      
 

by Al Diestelkamp

 

Some years ago when I was still occasionally climbing ladders I fell off one, and in an attempt to break my fall I sprained my left hand. Being right-handed I guess I had taken my left hand for granted, but this educated me as to how much I use my left hand. I found that my left hand does many things to make my right hand more useful. Without the left hand even tying my show was a chore. I even found that there are a few things my left hand was able to do better than my right hand. Some people are like my left hand. They may not be as dominant as others, but they are still important. A man named Hur never gained fame, nor did he have the abilities of Moses, but he did his part to make Moses’ job possible (Ex. 17:12). Likewise, there are no unimportant members in the body of Christ—nor in a local congregation. Even little things add up to much. Sometimes just “being there” is of value. You may think, “I won’t be missed.” Think again! Consider Job’s friends who, though they had their faults, sat in silence with Job for a whole week during his time of distress (Job 2:11-13). The Bible is filled with examples of people who were unsung heroes. Did you ever wonder why we don’t read of Lazarus as a bold apostle or eloquent preacher? He served his purpose by being a friend—and Jesus loved him for it (Jn. 11:35-36). Simon of Cyrene is known only for quietly bearing the cross for Jesus (Matt. 27:32). Kind of like me and my left hand, the apostle Paul did not fully appreciate John Mark until he had to work without him (see Ac. 15:36-41; 2 Tim. 4:9-11). Some people who played supporting roles used their experiences as preparation for even greater service. Joseph started as a slave and ended up as governor of Egypt allowing him to serve the brothers who earlier considered him useless. David worked as a shepherd before he defeated the giant, and faithfully served the king he would later replace. Anyone who “can see through a ladder” can see that it doesn’t take much of a man or woman to please God, but it takes every bit of him or her. Do what you can. If you do, you will be sure to please the Lord who honored a woman who “did what she could” by anointing His head with oil.  (Mk. 14:1-9).        Other Articles by Al Diestelkamp Euphemizing Sin About This Election Take Heed to Yourself Praying Like David In Defense of Topical Preaching Goats Among Sheep American Immortality Problems With Local Autonomy Don't Ask Fellowship     For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com