God Sees the Impact You Have

Sometimes, we may find ourselves in the spotlight, earning praise left and right and enjoying others’ respect and admiration. Yet the time we spend in the shadows is also important; we can make an unforgettable impact while remaining humble and behind the scenes.

Here are 3 ways to embrace your role:

1. Put less value on public admiration. Although it can be exciting to be well known and widely spoken of, we don’t always need to be in the spotlight to effect change. For example, while we are all familiar with the heavy hitters in the Bible, including Moses, Noah, and Mary, there are others who did just as much to spread God’s word that we don’t readily know. This was definitely the case for Tychicus, a man who traveled with Paul to carry God’s message to new lands. Despite his minor role as Paul’s opening act, Tychicus was able to open the hearts of those in the crowd, ensuring they were ready to accept the word of the Lord. Today, place the emphasis on your spirit and not your ego, and know that public recognition does not equate to serious change. To inspire yourself, remember these words: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 (ESV)
2. Know that your worth shines in the shadows. When you do a huge amount of work and fail to get the credit, it can be disheartening and frustrating. However, it is important to remember that your worth shines just as clearly in the shadows. One example of a person whose diligent and powerful work for the Lord in the shadows led to real goodness is Andrew. As Peter’s brother, Andrew was able to introduce him to Jesus, ensuring Jesus’ inner circle was filled with people who could help him forward the word of the Lord. Although Andrew worked in the shadows, his incredible worth was clear. Therefore, if you’re struggling with being in the shadows, know that your assignment is no less important, and remember that God sees and appreciates it. Recall these words when you need to remember your work’s worth: “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” Philippians 2:13 (NIV)
3. Remember that your humility will be rewarded. Seeing others accomplish amazing feats and be given wonderful opportunities can be challenging. In fact, it may even awaken your ego and cause you to jump at any chance of proving yourself. However, when we turn to the Scriptures, we see that Gideon behaved the opposite way. When an angel came to him and told him he would lead the Israelites, Gideon reacted with humility and gave the angel an offering before asking how he could have been chosen for the assignment. It is precisely because Gideon acted with such selfless humility that God chose him for the task. His humble and sacrificial attitude brought him closer to the Lord and ensured he was poised for success. So the next time you are faced with an incredible feat, remain humble and remember these words: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:11 (ESV)

Today, turn your blues to blessings by maintaining a humble outlook.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness…against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)

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