Why is it that when I read of great men of the past, I cannot simply thank God for them and seek to follow their example? Why does jealousy flame within me and why is ambition stirred?
I do want to do great things for God… and I’m becoming more and more convinced that this desire may suffice to keep me from it. Would God use such a proud vessel?
I know a very helpful book you should read about this.
It’s called Preaching and Preachers by Martyn Lloyd-Jones.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0310278708/drmartylloydjone
Have you got a copy I could borrow?
EDIT: never mind, Fisher library does.
I have no doubt that God could use ‘such a vessel’, as you put it – He approached Paul when he was still Saul, didn’t He? God doesn’t wait until perfection is reached to use someone (thank goodness, otherwise I don’t think we could ever do anything!)
You might also want to check out “Holy Discontent” by Bill Hybels – I haven’t read it yet myself but I’ve heard it’s a good book on this topic
Thanks for your encouragement. I still struggle to believe that he would want to use me…
I suppose all I can do is work as for the Lord in whatever capacity He has given me, and wait to see what He does with it.
(Mark Driscoll calls it ‘giving Jesus your lunch’)