How can we support others in becoming "useful" for God's purposes today? From Useless to Useful “Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is useful both to you and to me.” – Philemon 1:11 Recognize Hidden Potential • See people through the lens of Christ’s redemption, not past failure (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Acknowledge that every believer is created for “good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life” (Ephesians 2:10). • Call out God-given gifts you observe; affirmation sparks hope. Invest Relationally • Paul wrote and vouched for Onesimus; personal advocacy opens doors. • Meet regularly, listen deeply, share life (Acts 20:20). • Accept inconveniences—real mentoring is costly but fruitful. Speak Identity in Christ • Remind them they are “a chosen people…that you may proclaim the praises of Him” (1 Peter 2:9). • Replace labels of failure with scriptural truth: forgiven (1 John 1:9), equipped (2 Timothy 3:17), empowered (Philippians 4:13). Provide Equipping and Opportunity • Encourage service in real ministry tasks; usefulness grows with practice (Matthew 25:21). • Share resources: study tools, skill training, testimonies. • Pair new servants with seasoned believers (Titus 2:3-5). Model Servant Leadership • Demonstrate humility and diligence (Mark 10:45). • Let them observe your decision-making, prayer life, conflict resolution. • Invite questions; transparency breeds trust. Extend Forgiveness and Grace • Paul appealed, “If he has wronged you…charge it to me” (Philemon 1:18). Stand in the gap. • Create an environment where failure is met with restoration (Galatians 6:1-2), not condemnation. • Teach the discipline of repentance and fresh obedience (Proverbs 28:13). Pray and Encourage Continually • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). • Send timely Scriptures, voice memos, or notes. • Cover them in intercession; God fashions the vessel (Jeremiah 18:4-6). Celebrate Progress and Fruit • Share testimonies of transformation; gratitude cements growth (Psalm 107:2). • Thank God publicly for their contributions, as Paul did (Philemon 1:7). • Set new faith goals together—usefulness is a lifelong journey (2 Peter 1:5-8). The Outcome When we recognize potential, invest relationally, speak Christ-centered identity, equip, model, forgive, pray, and celebrate, we cooperate with God in turning modern-day Onesimuses into indispensable coworkers for the gospel—living proofs that the Lord still changes “useless” into “useful.” |
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