What does it mean to be “ordinary” in God’s eyes, considering that societal definitions of ordinariness often focus on a lack of exceptional talent, achievement, or status? Does God view ordinariness as a neutral state, a positive attribute, or perhaps something to be transcended? Are the skills, talents, and experiences we perceive as “ordinary” actually extraordinary from a divine perspective? How might someone who feels ordinary in their daily life find meaning and purpose, believing that they are loved and valuable in God’s eyes? Are there biblical examples of “ordinary” individuals who were used by God in extraordinary ways? And, ultimately, how can we reconcile the human desire for significance with the apparent ordinariness of much of everyday existence within a spiritual framework?
Answer
To be ordinary in God’s eyes can mean several things, often contrasting with conventional human notions of success, fame, or power. Here are some interpretations:
1. Valued for Inherent Worth, Not External Achievement: God sees inherent worth in every individual, regardless of their social standing, skills, or accomplishments. Being "ordinary" in the world’s eyes doesn’t diminish one’s value in God’s eyes. Every person is uniquely created and loved by God.
2. Faithful in Small Things: God often values faithfulness in the seemingly insignificant aspects of life more than grand, public displays. Someone who diligently cares for their family, consistently acts with kindness, or perseveres in their daily work, even without recognition, is seen as faithful and valuable in God’s sight. The parable of the talents illustrates this, where those who multiplied smaller amounts were equally rewarded as those who multiplied larger amounts.
3. Humble and Teachable: Recognizing one’s limitations and remaining open to learning and growth is a quality God often esteems. An "ordinary" person, humble enough to acknowledge their need for God’s guidance and willing to be shaped by His will, is often more receptive to His influence than someone who is self-assured and proud.
4. Available for God’s Purpose: God can use anyone, regardless of their perceived abilities or qualifications, to accomplish His purposes. An ordinary person who makes themselves available to God, willing to serve wherever they are needed, can be instrumental in God’s plan. Many figures in the Bible, like shepherds, farmers, and fishermen, were ordinary people whom God used in extraordinary ways.
5. Marked by Love and Compassion: Showing love, kindness, and compassion to others, especially those who are marginalized or overlooked, is a way of reflecting God’s own character. An ordinary person who consistently demonstrates these qualities is living out God’s love in the world. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus to love your neighbor as yourself and to care for the poor and needy.
6. Contentment and Gratitude: Finding contentment in one’s present circumstances and expressing gratitude for what one has is pleasing to God. An ordinary person who cultivates a spirit of gratitude, rather than constantly striving for more, demonstrates a trust in God’s provision and a recognition of His blessings.
7. Authentic and Genuine: God values authenticity and genuineness over outward appearances or religious performance. An ordinary person who strives to live honestly and transparently, without pretending to be someone they are not, is demonstrating integrity.
8. Part of a Larger Whole: Recognizing that one’s role, however seemingly small, contributes to the larger body of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s plan. An ordinary person, working in harmony with others and contributing their unique gifts, is vital to the functioning of the community. This echoes the Apostle Paul’s description of the church as a body with many parts, each essential to the whole.
Pray This Prayer
Heavenly Father,
My heart wrestles with the idea of ordinariness. In this world that constantly shouts for achievement and recognition, I find myself wondering, what does it mean to be ordinary in Your eyes?
Lord, I confess that I often chase after greatness as the world defines it. I crave significance, applause, and a place of prominence. But I sense a deeper truth, a different kind of greatness, in the quiet simplicity of serving You.
Show me, Father, how to embrace the beauty of the mundane. Help me to find the extraordinary in the everyday tasks, the ordinary conversations, the seemingly small acts of kindness. Remind me that You see the intention in my heart, the love I offer, even when the world sees nothing special.
Teach me to value faithfulness above fame, to prioritize humility over recognition, and to seek Your approval rather than the approval of others. Help me understand that true significance lies not in what I accomplish, but in who I am becoming in Your light.
Let my ordinariness be a canvas upon which You can paint Your grace. Let my simple acts of love reflect Your boundless compassion. May my ordinary life be a testament to Your extraordinary love, a quiet hymn sung in the background of a noisy world.
Thank you, Lord, for seeing me, not for what I can do, but for who I am in Your loving gaze. Help me to be content in my ordinariness, knowing that in Your hands, even the smallest life can bloom with eternal purpose.
In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.