The Problem of Ordinary

Feeling ordinary is a common experience, but it’s important to remember that everyone has the potential to lead an extraordinary life. This concept is echoed throughout the Bible, which recounts the stories of many seemingly ordinary individuals who achieved remarkable things by placing their faith in God’s plan for them. They embraced the belief that they were created with a unique purpose and mission to fulfill on Earth.

The perception of ordinariness often leads to complacency, and the Bible addresses this through the wisdom of Proverbs. It warns against the pitfalls of laziness, highlighting that those who fail to plan for the future (Proverbs 20:4), overestimate their own wisdom (Proverbs 26:16), or do not put in the effort (Proverbs 10:4) are likely setting themselves up for hardship. Recognizing one’s potential and working towards it is key to transcending the ordinary and stepping into the extraordinary life that one is meant to live.

When individuals fall into a pattern of laziness, they often dodge tasks that are unappealing to them. This can manifest as making excuses or neglecting to ask for further explanation when instructions are vague. Unfortunately, such behavior can become habitual, making it difficult for people to see their own missteps. It becomes a comfortable routine, yet it reflects an indifference to priorities and responsibilities.

Individuals might deceive themselves or others, but subpar efforts do not align with divine expectations. The work designated for us is meant to be approached with diligence and excellence as if directly serving a higher purpose. Laziness carries significant repercussions. In the workplace, it can lead to constant corrections, and potentially, probation or dismissal. In the domestic sphere, neglect can strain family relations and foster frustration, eroding unity. Furthermore, this behavior can be inherited, as children often emulate their parents, adopting similar unfavorable patterns.

If you’re a believer, pray for the fortitude to resist worldly influences and the vigor to reshape your thoughts. In doing so, you’ll discern and embrace the divine purpose for your existence—His benevolent, flawless, and satisfying intention (see Romans 12:2). Moreover, yearn for the endurance to approach your tasks with meticulousness and distinction. Strive to be a reflection of Christ’s essence in your daily interactions (see 1 Timothy 4:12). Remember, Jesus exemplified exceptionality and industriousness. Created in His image, you are endowed with the Holy Spirit, your steadfast supporter and guide.

Jabez serves as a biblical example of a person who trusted in God’s purpose and mission for his life.

“Jabez stood out from his brothers for his honor… He called upon the God of Israel, saying, ‘Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my border, and that Your hand might be with me, and that You would keep me from evil so that I may not cause pain!’ And God granted what he requested” (1 Chronicles 4:9-10 NIV).

Jabez’s aspirations were lofty. Unlike many who settle for the mundane, Jabez sought to achieve greatness through divine intervention. His motivations were pure, evidenced by the fact that “God granted what he requested,” since God does not fulfill selfish desires.

To live an extraordinary life, one must dream audaciously, a dream so big that it seems unattainable without divine guidance. Life is not meant to be a series of unanswered questions about purpose and direction. God encourages us to aim high, driven by a desire to serve Him.

Jabez’s faith was expansive, marked by profound trust and conviction in God. He was not known for extraordinary talents; he was an ordinary individual with extraordinary belief.

In the journey of life, there’s a force that often trumps innate talent and skill: faith. Numerous individuals with exceptional talent remain in the shadows of mediocrity, while those fueled by faith achieve remarkable feats. Faith is the conviction that a higher power will act through you, granting you the courage to undertake great endeavors.

Escaping the clutches of idleness requires more than mere desire; it demands a grand vision coupled with an expanding faith. It’s about entrusting oneself to God to accomplish the extraordinary, much like Jabez did. It’s about nurturing a belief that can move mountains and transform the impossible into reality. Embrace faith, and watch the transformation unfold.