God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. (1 Corinthians 12:18)
We have a tendency to exalt those who are out in front leading the charge for the advancement of the kingdom of Christ. But let me ask you this question: What do these three things have in common: the spleen, the pancreas, and the kidney? The answer is that all three are hidden from view—they are invisible to our eyes—yet they are invaluable for the proper functioning of the body.
What is true for the human body is also true for the body of Christ. Many Christians are unknown and virtually invisible, working behind the scenes to serve and edify the people of God. But make no mistake, every single member of the body is invaluable for advancing the cause of Christ.
What is going on inside the human body is critical for its proper function, and what takes place inside the body of Christ is critical for its proper function. When one part of the body of Christ does not do what God has called it to do, everyone suffers. Everyone is needed and valuable in expanding the cause of the kingdom of God.
I often tell young people that God did not make any “extra” Christians. Everyone has been called by God to use their gifts, talents, and abilities as a fully functioning member of the body of Christ. What the pastor does is no more important than those who share their gifts of administration, helps, mercy, and prayer. Without everything that goes on behind the scenes, nothing would be happening out in front.
We each need each other in order to be a God-honoring, fully-functioning body of Christ. It takes all of us to make a church that will impact the world with the truths of the Gospel. And when we see it from the perspective of “Each of us for the other,” there is no limit to what God can do through His body. And when no one cares who gets the credit, the body of Christ functions at the peak of its God-given ability.
Where does this message find you as we launch out into another year? Perhaps you’ve been feeling a bit insignificant about your place in God’s kingdom because you have been laboring behind the scenes, virtually invisible in your service. Don’t feel that way! You are invaluable to the advancement of the cause of Christ right now, right where this finds you. Be encouraged today and throughout this year, knowing that whatever you are doing for the glory of God is echoing in eternity.
This is the Gospel. This is grace for your race. NEVER FORGET THAT . . . AMEN!
Grace for the Race 