Marriner’s Moments: Making a Difference – Pt. 2

Each of us has the power to make in difference in our life and the lives of others. We also have a responsibility to pay in forward. The manner in which we decide to pay it forward may vary. Some of us don’t have the time or resources to make a huge or time-consuming difference, but we can support, encourage and pray for those that do.
A national mentoring organization (www.mentoring.org) reports that young adults who were at-risk for falling off track, but had a mentor are:

• 55 percent more likely to enroll in college
• 78 percent more likely to volunteer regularly
• 90 percent are interested in becoming mentors
• 130 percent more likely to hold leadership positions.

Most of us who are positive and productive contributors to society can name at least ONE individual who made a significant difference in our lives – who mentored, encouraged, supported or prayed for us. Perhaps – if it wasn’t our parents – it was a neighbor, a sibling, a favorite aunt, uncle, teacher, counselor, or coach. We owe it to those individuals to pay it forward. So how are you making a difference in someone’s life?

It may not be your God-given assignment or purpose to become well known or famous for your contribution, but I encourage you to seek God to find out what your assignment is and pursue it. Each of us has one. If we can’t be there in person for someone, perhaps our assignment is to support and encourage those who can, give resources to a cause or agency, or donate equipment. Only YOU know what you can do to make a difference and, if you are unsure, ASK God! Seeking a response or confirmation from Him may not come by whispering a quick prayer every now and then; it may require fervent prayer. It may also require you to spend more time with God so that when He speaks, you recognize that it is His voice and not you setting your own agenda.

”Peace and power.
© Dr. Melvin O. Marriner,
Grove Church
March 2017