I’m Worthless

As I walked around the streets carrying the books of salvation on a cloudy day. What can I do to have an impact? I am only a young girl. But I was aware that God was capable of doing amazing things through me. I didn't know what it would be, but I had faith that God would answer my morning prayer for a divine appointment.

               I was walking down the street when I noticed an older man going inside his house. I hastened to catch up with him. He unexpectedly left the main door open while he stood there and observed what I was doing through the screen door. "That's great! He already wants to see what I have in store for him!"- I thought. The individual approached me as the glass door slowly opened. I quickly prayed in my head and, with a big smile, asked: "Hello!  How are you doing today, sir?" His statement immediately startled me. I was at a loss for words when he said, "I'm worthless." Never have I ever heard such an answer in my entire life. I believe that every single word uttered from my lips at that moment was solely sent by the Holy Spirit. I know this because I can never say the proper thing at the right time. The right thoughts always cross my mind after the chance has already passed.

    My heart overflowed with sorrow and compassion when I realized that someone genuinely believes he is worthless. I felt compelled to tell that person about my Savior right away. "No. You are PRICELESS! To someone who lives up there," - I pointed my finger at the sky. "He loves you, He died for you, and He calls YOU His child!"

Yes, the man said, "and He is about to take me."

I once more realized that I had nothing to offer in response. At that point, the only thing I could say was a bewildered, protracted "no."

               I decided to listen to his story instead of trying to break the ice with my statements. His wife had a severe case of blood cancer, and there didn't seem to be any chance for recovery. He wanted to be there for her as a caring spouse, but nothing he did could help. Beyond that, he was also having financial difficulties. It didn't appear to be a good idea to suggest that he purchase books. A stranger I just met wouldn't have the same opinion of the literature that means so much to me. I thought that praying with him would be the best course of action.

               Prayer works miracles, restores health, and warms the coldest hearts. I always try to pray, even if I cannot leave a book. We can never predict how someone will be reached by the gospel seed. Before leaving that person, I decided to make one more attempt. "Any small donation you give would help me pay for college," I said as I handed him a small copy of the Steps to Christ. He took out a few dollars to assist me in pursuing my goal of becoming a nurse. I was able to leave him a book as a result. He wanted to give me the book back, though, before I could even turn to leave. The man saw that the price tag on the back was higher than the amount he had given me. Despite everything he said, I insisted that he should keep the book.  It was a gift from me that I believed could change his life.

               I was exceedingly happy when we returned to the church later that day. That was a small victory that God gave me. I might not know where that man is right now and what happened later. However, I am praying for the Holy Spirit to start working on his heart. I am hoping that the man opened the book and was blown away by the message of eternal salvation in it. I only know that I arrived at the correct time because that person urgently needed to hear about God. Before he and I met, no one knows what he was thinking about. If I waited even a few minutes, he might not even be there anymore. That was God's divine appointment I asked for, and He has certainly granted my request.