Not His First Choice

Kerusso Daily Devotional

In the last century, a 4'10" woman from England answered the call of God to become a missionary in China. Her accomplishments there, especially in saving orphaned children during war and conflict, have made her sort of a legend.

Near the end of her life, Gladys Aylward gave an interview in which she said the most amazing thing — something that could only have come from the heart of a truly humble servant:

I wasn’t God’s first choice for what I’ve done for China. There was somebody else…I don’t know who it was—God’s first choice. It must have been a man—a wonderful man. A well-educated man. I don’t know what happened. Perhaps he died. Perhaps he wasn’t willing…And God looked down…and saw Gladys Aylward.

Ephesians 4:1–3 says, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

If you remember who you are in Christ, and remember that only through His strength can you accomplish anything worthy of leaving a legacy, you’ll find contentment that most only dream of.

Let’s pray.

Lord, give us a humble heart in everything we do. In Jesus' name. Amen.