What's In Your Hand?

God has been working on my heart lately. I’ve been feeling a little stuck. A little restless. A little discontent. Maybe you’ve felt that before, too—when you start searching for something new to fix the discomfort of now.

If only I had a different job.

If only I had more time.

If only I had more money.

If only I went to a bigger church.

If only I had more education.

If only I had a newer car.

If only I had more, more, more…

In my reading this week, I came across this small, easily missed verse, tucked like a footnote at the end of a story about Israel’s deliverance:

“After Ehud, Shamgar son of Anath became judge. He also delivered Israel, striking down six hundred Philistines with a cattle prod.”— Judges 3:31 (CSB)

A cattle prod. 

Not impressive.

Not strategic.

Not something anyone would say, “Yes, this will defeat an army.”

Yet God moved through an ordinary farmer because he was willing to listen to God and use what he had available.

2 Corinthians 9:8 tells us: “And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work.” (CSB)

This past week, whenever I felt restlessness creeping in, the discontent that whispered I needed something more, I paused and asked:

What is it God is asking me to do, right now, with what I already have?

And I remind myself of this truth: I have EVERYTHING I need.

It may look small. Unlikely. Ordinary.

It may require creativity or a fresh perspective.

But every good work begins with what’s already mine;

what God has already provided.

I want to challenge you, just as I have been challenged:

What is God asking you to do, right now, with what you already have?

Don’t wait for better conditions,

a different season,

another sign,

more, more, more…

Respond to Him.

Use what you have.

Start where you are.

Trust that God has already given you everything you need to follow Him faithfully.

Would you pray with me?

Father, we confess we have looked past what You’ve already placed in our hands. We’ve convinced ourselves that we need more before we can move. Obey. Be content.

But You know our hearts, and You offer grace upon grace. Thank You for providing everything we need to live a life that pleases You, and for the second chances You so freely give us.

We are Your children. Do a mighty work in us.

Purify our hearts.

Open our eyes to see where You are already at work.

And by the power of Your Spirit,

help us respond with willing, obedient lives.

For Your glory,

Amen.

🤍 Terra