Nehemiah chapter 11 verses 1-2 (NIV)
Now the leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem. The rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten of them to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the remaining nine were to stay in their own towns. The people commended all who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.
2 Corinthians Chapter 8: verse 12 (NIV)
For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.
A pastor I knew many years ago often used the phrase, “one volunteer is better than ten pressed men.” As a young Christian, I didn’t fully understand why, but now I realise it has a lot to do with our attitude and willingness. The people here commended those who had volunteered to live in Jerusalem. They praised them for doing so – they felt that these people were suitable for what they were going to do. It wasn’t an easy job. Jerusalem was in ruins and the work had only just begun. Also at the end of chapter ten, the last sentence was the promise by the people not to neglect the House of the Lord.
When we have a willing heart and are keen to work for God, Paul explained to the Corinthian church that it is acceptable to God, and He is therefore able to work through us, even with all our shortcomings. With a willing heart combined with total obedience God can do much. And so perhaps that’s why these volunteers in Jerusalem were being commended. It’s a great comfort and encouragement that we don’t need to be perfect, just willing.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for those who set an example by their willingness to serve You. They trust You to undertake for their shortcomings and even at times their lack of skill and knowledge. Thank You that we don’t need to be perfect, just willing to be used as an instrument in Your hands. If we are willing You will do all You need to do through us, not in our own strength but Yours. Lord grant me always to have a willing heart. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.