Unused Potential

Scripture References: 2 Kings 17:6, 25:21; 1 Timothy 4:14-16

The Germans had two powerful weapons in World War II that never repaid their investment. The Tirpitz, one of the most powerful battleships of her time, fired her eight fifteen-inch guns only to reduce shore batteries at Spitsbergen, Norway. Gustav, the largest gun ever manufactured, had to be shipped in sections on railroad cars. When assembled, its mounting straddled two sets of standard gauge tracks, with eighty wheels supporting it. Though it could propel a seven-ton shell twenty-three miles, the Germans used it only in the siege of Sevastopol, Russia.

When Jesus ascended to heaven, he gave gifts to his children. To some more, to others less, but to each something. He gave them for a single purpose—to be used. He loaded his people with all the armor, weaponry, and ammunition needed to live victoriously. Having done so, he now expects us to do it. Any refusal insults him and mocks his purpose.

Courtesy of Speaker’s Sourcebook of New Illustrations by Virgil Hurley © 1995 by Word, Incorporated.
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.