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Devotionally Yours

March 13, 2008: Being Used By God, Robin Bjornson

I hear this statement frequently, 'being used by God.” “You just need to let God use you.”

Well-intentioned comments probably but it grates my nerves every time I hear it.

For me it evokes the question: is it the character of God to use people?

I believe statements such as this are attempts to communicate that we should allow the Holy Spirit to move unhindered in our lives. But what comes across to me in this statement isn't what I know of the character of God. How about you?

Recently, a friend called relaying a situation that was occurring and I left immediately to met her at the hospital. In the psychiatric holding area of a downtown emergency room, it was clear to me that I had no official training with which to comfort her. The issues were so complex and beyond anything I'd come across in my life. After many hours of sitting, praying, embracing, and crying, the immediacy was over and I was on my way home. I began crying, asking God why in the world did He send me to that situation when it was clear I had nothing to offer. The still small voice gently responded: Immanuel

I began pondering what I knew of Immanuel, God With Us and realized that there is so much comfort in our trials when a loved one comes along side. Not to answer questions, not to explain it all away, but to just be with someone. My place in that setting was to just be with her. As I reflected back through painful situations in my own life, there was so much comfort I received by just having someone I cared about with me so I didn't have to face my issue alone. This is who He is and longs to have re-presented to the world: I want to be with you in your journey. We as His children get to be with Him and allow His power to work through us as we are with others in the course of their lives.

When I hear “using” I think using up, extinguishing, being a robotic conduit.

As I continue my journey with the Lord, more and more I see revealed in the Word of God His great desire for relationship, coming along side in love and support, desiring beyond all else to accomplish in this world His will with you and me.

Deut 31:8 The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

It isn't just about the accomplishment of the tasks of life and ministry through His strength and wisdom. I see His delight and enjoyment of your unique company along the way.

Zep 3:17 The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.

Kingdom come, certainly, but kingdom come with YOU.

After all, you are His delight.