In my digital painting “Make A Joyful Noise” the flute player’s hands are large, and seem clumsy as she plays her instrument.
In God’s word, the Psalmist tells us to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. It does not matter whether we are talented singers or musicians. He just says, “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord…” Psalm 100:1
God loves each of us. He created us to worship Him just as we are with whatever skills and talents we have.
It brings God joy when we accept ourselves for who He created us to be. We honor Him when we don’t compare ourselves with others. We may feel clumsy and awkward, as if we don’t measure up in some way, but God says, “Make a joyful noise!”
Jesus said, “You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought.” ~Matthew 5:5 The Message
In my painting, the Flute Player is playing her flute anyway, even though she seems unsure, unsteady, with her large awkward hands.
Sometimes God will ask us to do something that we don’t feel we have the right skills for, or are incompetent to do, or that we might fail in.
God asks us to trust Him, to walk by faith. “For we walk by faith and not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7
He asks us to believe His word that says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
He asks us to trust in the power of His grace to help us with every challenge.
“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.” ~ 2 Corinthians 9:8
When God appeared to Moses in the burning bush and asked him to lead His people out of slavery from Egypt, Moses was filled with excuses as to why he was the wrong man for this assignment.
But God assured him that it was His power that would do the rescuing and that all Moses had to do was walk by faith, trust God and be obedient to all God asked of him.
This is all God is asking of each of us. He might not be giving us the huge responsibility that Moses had, but He does give each of us assignments throughout our lives. Each one of us are very important to God’s plan, though we might not realize our importance to God this side of eternity.
When God told Joshua to lead His people across the Jordan River into the Promised Land, He said, “Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” ~Joshua 1:9
Each day that we live we have opportunities to sow seeds of light and love in our Lord’s Vineyard. He will show us His will if we will listen to Him. And if He gives us an assignment that seems too difficult, remember Moses. Remember Joshua. Remember His promises: “I will be with you wherever you go…” It’s not by might, it’s not by power, but it’s by My Spirit, says the Lord of Hosts.” Zechariah 4:6
We may feel awkward, unsteady and clumsy like the flute player in my painting. But we must walk by faith and trust God and obey Him and do whatever He asks of us anyway.
For in the end, He will make a lovely song out of our joyful noise we have made unto Him whether or not we were competent in the thing He called us to do.
For God does not base His calling on our talents, skills, or appearances. All He asks is a willing, humble and faithful heart.
Jesus said, “You did not choose me. I chose you. And I gave you this work: to go and produce fruit—fruit that will last.” John 16:16
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may we have willing, faithful hearts that will humbly obey You no matter what You ask of us, in Jesus’ name, amen.
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“Make A Joyful Noise” Original Digital Painting © 2015 Suzanne Davis Harden All Rights Reserved. Scripture Pictures via You Version Bible App
* High Quality Resolution Prints Are Available of “Make A Joyful Noise” in my Etsy Shop at Wings Publications on Etsy: Follow the link for more information
http://www.etsy.com/shop/WingsPublications
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