The Great Depression was one of the darkest periods in American history. I still recall stories from my mom, stories of how tough life was during that desperate era, stories of how folks were barely surviving, working whatever jobs they could find to provide for their family. This world-wide economic disaster took place in the 1930’s, when my mother was just a young girl, yet she vividly remembered the struggles her family endured, those memories stayed with her.
During those years of depression, a young man began selling fried chicken from a service station in Kentucky, eventually moving his operation, Sanders’ Café, across the street. Harland, a fatherless child with a devout Christian mother, had already tried his hand at farming, insurance, and as a stoker on a steam engine, humble beginnings. But the restaurant was successful and gained a large clientele; it was so successful that Colonel Sanders (Harland) is now a household brand. This hugely successful franchise had quite the modest start, didn’t it?
The Bible teems with stories of successful servants of God who have had humble beginnings. One such story involves a young man, the youngest of eight, a shepherd and a musician, and more importantly, a young man with a heart for the things of God. This young man battled a bear and a lion, bravely defending his flocks. He sang songs of praise to God as he watched over his daddy’s herds. God took notice of this God-fearing, young shepherd, seeing the potential buried deep within those humble roots. The Lord took this lowly servant, allowed him some great victories, and guided him through some difficult valleys. He faced a giant, battled Israel’s enemies, fled the presence of a jealous king, yet never lost his faith in and devotion to his God. When God was to appoint a king who would follow Him wholeheartedly and care for His people passionately, He chose this meek man, David. Yes, only a boy named David was God’s chosen vessel for this great task. From the fields of a shepherd to the throne of Israel. Wow, what a promotion!
God can use us mightily, regardless of our social or financial standing. He only requires “…that a man be found faithful”. God loves humble beginnings, because then all the glory of our success is credited to the One Who is deserving of all the honor and praise, not ourselves. Willingly give all that you have to Him, lay it all at His feet, and allow Him to accomplish great things for His glory. “Though your beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase.” Perhaps your service to the Lord seems small and insignificant? Stay humble and faithful, He has great plans for you!
I Chronicles 17:7 I took thee from the sheepcote, even from following the sheep, that thou shouldest be ruler over my people Israel.
Thank You, Lord, for humble beginnings. You can take the weakest of vessels and use them for Your glory. Thank You for choosing the weak things to confound the things that are mighty. If I willingly give all that I have to You, You can use it and accomplish great things.