“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27).

A famous violinist announced he would be playing one of the world’s most expensive violins in his concert.

The first composition he played flawlessly.

And each one after that was better than the performance before.

The audience was thrilled and enamored with his perfect performance!

After bowing during the applause-

– the violinist suddenly picked up the priceless violin and smashed it to the floor, completely destroying it.

The audience gasped and looked on with horrified expressions.

That is, until the famous violinist explained he had been playing an inexpensive violin all along.

The musician then picked up the truly expensive violin and began playing it.

The sound was just as beautiful as before.

And most people couldn’t even tell the difference between the two instruments.

The lesson in this illustration is that the quality of the violin was secondary to the skill of the violinist.

This is almost like our service to the Lord.

The Master can and wants to use ordinary instruments like us.

In 1 Corinthians 1:27-

Paul states that God chose foolish and weak things to shame the wise and strong.

And He did that so no one would “boast before Him” (1 Corinthians 1:29).

Like the cheap violin played by the violinist-

– we too can be instruments in the Lord’s hands to bring glory to His name and blessing to those around us.

It matters not if you are unable to serve as you did before, practice your talents, or put your gifts to use as often.

God knows your every weakness and He still desires to use you right where He has placed you.

Ask God to use you as an instrument for His glory.

Pray that wherever He uses you-

– you will be an influence in the lives of others.