The God of Human Error
By Jennie Pierce
“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians 2:13 (NLT)
This story was shared by a dear missionary friend of mine in Poland. It’s a reminder that God doesn’t need or require perfect people to do His work - - just willing people.
“Recently, I started an international student fellowship comprised of students from the U.S., Taiwan, China, Africa and other European countries. The American students, usually of Indian descent, are mostly Muslim and Hindu. Our fellowship has a core group of eight, mostly men, and they are excited about moving forward in Christ.
Just as the group was beginning, one of the Hindu students (V.) had an accident that resulted in a severe head injury. He was operated on, and placed in a drug-induced coma. His parents flew in, and everyone was concerned that he might not make it. The Christian students organized a prayer vigil, and asked the parents if I could come pray for him that Friday. They agreed, and then on Saturday, the doctors woke V. Over the next two days he improved rapidly, so that by Monday he was walking and talking and recognizing people. After two weeks, the doctors released him, saying he was completely healed. The Hindu parents attributed it to the Christians praying!
The students had originally planned a prayer meeting the previous Wednesday, but when the doctors decided he’d be awakened on Wednesday, V's parents vetoed the prayer meeting. Shortly thereafter, the doctors returned to say that V wasn't improved enough, and awakening him should wait until the following week. So, when the students returned to ask if I could pray for him, V’s parents were much more receptive. This kind of experience is rare for me - and, by human standards, I messed it up. I didn't touch him while I prayed - - and the parents expected me to, I think. I totally drew a blank on his name - - not a good thing to do when you are praying for someone, either. But God is the Healer. He knew V's name before anyone else did, and God touched V. I'm so glad God's power and healing have nothing in common with formulas, rituals or even our ability to remember someone's name.The whole experience not only gave a great base for our international fellowship, but it also prepared me to be more cognizant of the ways God works.”
I’m grateful He promises not only to give us the desire, but also the ability to do His good work! Are you willing?
GOING DEEPER:
1. Is the Spirit nudging you to reach out, but you’re feeling incompetent and hesitant to be obedient Will you ask to be made willing?
FURTHER READING:
I Corinthians 2:1-5; 2 Corinthians 4:7Jennie is a wife and mother of three. She is beginning a brand-new faith adventure as the Pierce family leaves Oakwood to serve in ministry at United Church of Crook, Colorado.
