God Uses the Humble

Commissioner Brengle became one of the most beloved and effective preachers in The Salvation Army. On one occasion Brengle was introduced as "the great Dr. Brengle." In his diary he wrote: "If I appear great in their eyes, the Lord is most graciously helping me to see how absolutely nothing I am without Him, and helping me to keep little in my own eyes. He does use me. But I am so concerned that He use me and that it is not of me the work is done. The axe cannot boast of the trees it has cut down. It could do nothing but for the woodsman. He made it, he sharpened it, and he used it. The moment he throws it aside; it becomes only old iron. O that I may never lose sight of this."

Proverbs 27:21 says we are tested by the praise we receive. Brengle passed this test.

It seems that often those most used of God are those who are most aware of their limitations, but in humble obedience move in the direction they sense God leading. Moses, shrinking back from the awesome task of leading Israel, exclaimed, "O Lord, I have never been eloquent....send someone else" (Ex 4:10,13). Solomon pleaded, "But I am only a child, and do not know how to carry out my duties" (1 King 3:7). Their words expressed humility, and humility is always a sign of usefulness to God.

Thank You, Lord, for working through our weaknesses to bring You glory.

"My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness" (2 Cor. 12:9 NLT).

"Do you seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them," (Jer. 45:5).

Memory Verse for July      

"Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (Colossians 3:17).