Imagine the hardest situation you have ever found yourself in. Maybe it is a bad job or a hard marriage. Even now, you might find yourself in the midst of a hardship that you would rather not have to deal with. Whatever it may be we can have peace knowing God is with us and that He can use us in that situation.

“Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called. Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can be made free, rather use it.” 1 Corinthians 7:20-21

I cannot imagine a worse situation than to find myself a slave. To have no free will to come and go as I please, but instead to be chained to a master who decides for me. Now, this passage is not condoning slavery, but is using this position in life to make a very strong point.Paul is telling those in Corinth that whatever they were doing when they were saved (ie: called) they should continue doing. The only difference is that it is done unto the Lord.

Instead of griping because of their situation, rather use it. Instead of wishing for something else, rather us it. Instead of coveting that position, that paycheck, that status...rather use it. That it that we should use is whatever the Lord has given us, for His glory.

Got a bum job? Use it.

Got a hard marriage? Use it.

Got a sickness? Use it.

Remember, there is something much bigger than ourselves at stake here. There are souls on the line. People who are watching us and how we act/react inside of tough situations. Pastor John Piper wrote an incredible article called, “Don’t Waste Your Cancer” on the eve of going into prostate surgery (due to cancer). It is a powerful look at a specific way we can use it (ie: cancer) for the glory of God and the proclamation of the gospel. No matter our current situations God can use them for a purpose beyond our understanding...as long as we are willing to be used.

Please know this is not a call to suffer for the sake of suffering. If you are blessed with a great job, marriage, health, then praise God and use those things for His glory. If not, then use what you have for His glory and be encouraged. The God of all creation can use your life to change another’s...possibly for all eternity.