Ever wondered what you might have that God could use to expand his kingdom? The answer might lie in his simple question to Moses in Exodus 3-4: “What’s that in your hand?” God often partners with ordinary people, using things we consider ordinary, to accomplish his extraordinary purposes.
As Moses stood before a burning bush, he received an extraordinary commission from God. Overwhelmed by the task at hand, Moses questioned his own abilities and resources.
In response, God asked him a simple question: “What is that in your hand?” Moses looked down at the most common object a shepherd could carry. “A staff,” he responded. God instructed Moses to throw it on the ground. It transformed into a serpent, then back into a staff again.
When surrendered to God, a simple shepherd’s staff became a powerful instrument for miracles and deliverance – a powerful reminder that the value is not in the resource itself but in our willingness to offer it to God for his use.
What do you have that God might be calling you to use? Here are several types of seemingly ordinary resources, talents, or opportunities to consider.
The gift of time
One of the most valuable resources we have is time. You might feel your time is limited, but even a few hours can make a difference. Though initially hesitant due to her packed schedule, one busy executive began volunteering at a local homeless shelter. Her expertise in strategic planning dramatically improved the nonprofit’s effectiveness. And her personal connection to shelter residents helped her reorder her priorities and experience more joy.
What time can you offer? Perhaps you have an hour to visit a lonely neighbor, a few minutes to send an encouraging message, or a weekend to volunteer for a cause you care about.
Talents and skills
Each of us has unique talents and skills that can be used for the greater good. For example, a retired teacher began tutoring children in his church and neighborhood, providing them with the support they needed to catch up on important learnings that were lost due to the pandemic.
What are you good at? Whether it’s financial, spiritual, or social skills, there is always a way to use your talents to serve others.
Financial resources
God can use your valuable non-cash assets to create transformative impact. When placed in God’s hands, these resources can be multiplied exponentially to affect thousands of lives. Often, non-cash assets can help you make a much greater kingdom impact than simply giving cash.
What unique financial resources do you possess beyond liquid assets? Consider the potential of non-cash gifts such as appreciated securities, real estate, or business interests.
Influence and relationships
We all have spheres of influence and relationships that can be put to use for good. One well-connected CEO used her extensive network to strategically introduce non-profit leaders to potential givers and collaborators within her corporate circles. Her efforts led to several high-impact partnerships, including a tech company providing pro bono services to a global anti-trafficking initiative.
Who is within your sphere of influence? What relationships could you leverage to encourage collaborations that might never happen otherwise?
Your inventory of abundance
So, take some time to reflect and pray. Make a list of all your skills, financial resources, influence, relationships, experiences or opportunities you can think of. (Here’s a guide to help you.) Whatever you have to share, with God it’ll be enough.
Surrender it to him, and watch him work wonders. There is always something in your hand to give. And even the simplest offering can make a monumental impact.
