Beating the Odds

Read Exodus 4:10-12

Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.

-1 Peter 4:10 (NRSV)

IN 1985, I read 1 Peter 4:10 while God was in the process of delivering me from a 16-year drug and alcohol addiction. My recovery was rough, but it was the first step to an exciting journey with Christ. I lean on that scripture every day and have not abused drugs or alcohol since.

I understood that this scripture was telling me to serve God in whatever situation God led me to. I was a mechanic back then, so I began telling people that I repaired their cars because scripture told me to. But I had no idea that God had a different plan for my life, a plan I never would have believed - full-time ministry. You see, I was born tongue-tied and with Tourette syndrome. I had only a ninth-grade education. I was a biker with long hair; tattoos covered my arms. In society's eyes, I was not cut out to be a public speaker. But by following God's word, I am now an ordained minister with a bachelor's degree in religion. I am involved in prison ministry, and I travel nationally and internationally telling those in prison how God can change their lives.

I still find it amazing how God can use someone like me. I guess God is still in the business of beating the odds.

Al Paquette (Florida, USA)

Lord, help us each day to seek people who are lost. Give us courage to speak a word of hope and comfort from you. Amen.

What gift from God can I share with others?

To be available for God