You just don't fit in

"The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognised them as men who had been with Jesus."

                                                                         Acts 4:13   NLT

They may not always fit in at certain fellowships that they join. They may have left their previous church with a very good reputation and, because of jealousy, they may not be well received. Let's face it, we are human and can be threatened by someone else's success so much that they become a threat instead of a blessing. They may not meet our standards but they well meet Jesus'. For example, someone may have a criminal background but since then they have been born again, been to bible college or undergone deep training. People make mistakes but Jesus gives people a second chance and will use them powerfully if He chooses.

Take for instance Peter and John (Act 4). They were arrested for preaching Jesus and placed in jail. When they appeared before the Council, the leaders there could see that they were just ordinary, no qualifications or any particular skill but they were quick to notice that they had been with Jesus. Wow, what a testimony in itself. They were just ordinary fishermen but it could plainly be seen that they had been with Jesus, It's good to have qualifications but there is nothing better than people recognising you as a follower of Jesus. That is an honour.

Then there was Rahab, a prostitute and despite this label, she was responsible for hiding the spies in Jericho and thus, was helpful in bringing down the walls of Jericho. And even though this lady had been living a sinful life as a prostitute, God used her and gave her another chance.

Then of course, there was Jesus. People saw Him as a carpenter living in Nazareth, with no particular prospects. Yet, this young man was the King of kings, the Lord of all lords and He was the Messiah. People ridiculed Him as He began to tell them about God and Himself. They laughed at Him, beat Him and then crucified him. But, He arose to power, no one could stop him. God gave Him the name that is above all names (Philippians 2:9) and He is our Saviour.

We should never write anyone off thinking they don't fit in. We're not called to judge just because they haven't been to university or have an elite job. They may be off the streets and don't speak the King's English and their clothes may be secondhand but, Jesus loves them and sees their potential. What about you?

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now
Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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