Make Use Of Me

Rise and Shine for Jesus! \O/

By Pam Iannello (my late mother)

Romans 16:1-16 (KJV)

I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: [2] That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also. [3] Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: [4] Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. [5] Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. [6] Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. [7] Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. [8] Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. [9] Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. [10] Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household. [11] Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. [12] Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. [13] Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. [14] Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them. [15] Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them. [16] Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.

What we just read is an account of women who were actively involved in the early church. In fact, they were so instrumental in the work of the Lord that the apostle Paul both highly recommends and commends them. Because there has always been controversy regarding women in ministry, it seems that in view of one extreme, another is taken, and women that minister in a truly scriptural manner are overlooked or disregarded altogether. I appreciate godly leaders who take the time to acknowledge the assistance that women bring to the service of the Lord, noting specifically how God uses them to minister to the needs of the people. No doubt each lady mentioned above, just like each one of us today, contributed a diversity of talents to enriching and supporting the church. In order to be effective in ministry, these women were first receptive to the very gospel that gave birth to the great changes in their own lives. By their own testimonies they were able to enhance the truth that was being preached.

On another note, it has been my disappointing experience that in Bible believing camps there are few settings provided in which the wisdom of faithful, godly women is utilized. I find it quite surprising that in meetings packed with faithful preachers, their wives are seldom valued for their scriptural knowledge or experience and shared among the attending women. In fact, their level of participation is minimal at best. Can their stewardship of the gospel not be trusted?? Activities for the children are typically planned for such gatherings, yet women of various ages are starving for occasions for female discipleship. Yes, the preaching helps, but there is something about another woman opening the Word of God that hits us in spots a man cannot know of! The church desperately needs the influence of faithful, sober-minded Christian women, and whenever we have the privilege of a respected man of God come through our church to preach, we make it a point to tap into the heart of his wife and bid her speak to our ladies. It has always enriched the life of our church, perfected the saints, and been a fruitful practice.

What types of ministry do you promote, dear lady?  What ministries do you feel burdened about? What areas of service have you been involved in and seen good results?  As children of God, we all have natural capabilities that can be used in a spiritual capacity.  The question is, are you in the habit of utilizing them for the edification of the church? How have you grown in your understanding of your role in the body of Christ?

1 Cor. 12:4-7 (KJV)

Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. [5] And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. [6] And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. [7] But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

The Christlike attributes we possess as Christian women are not for ourselves – they are to be employed for the glory of God! Your level of generosity reveals your understanding of the Lord – have you been willing to give yourself away for the profit of others?

As we briefly consider the names of the women included in our opening text, Pheobe was referred to by Paul as “our sister”.  She was noted for her sisterly concerns and labor among the brethren. The Bible says she was a succuorer of many; Phoebe stood by in case of need and brought relief to anyone requiring help. She was a true example of consecrated womanhood.  Priscilla was always paired with her husband; they were never mentioned apart. Here is a rare testimony in ministry today and a very wise woman! Many Christian couples busy serving the Lord have allowed the church to divide their marriages. Thank God for balanced examples like Aquila and Priscilla who sacrificed greatly but never lost their home in the process!  Mary also bestowed much labor and Paul felt she deserved to be greeted as well. How often we overlook our most faithful helpers who toil tirelessly behind the scenes… While it was not mentioned what she did, we do know Mary did what she could to lighten Paul’s load and this man of God was appreciative. Gratitude toward Tryphena and Tryphosa was expressed as well. Ccertainly this delicate duo teamed up to make a big difference in the body of Christ! Persis, another model hard worker, had become precious to Paul. Ladies, are you beginning to understand the value even your slightest contribution adds to the work of the Lord? “Working women” – church workers who never tired of lending a hand, surrounded Paul. Even the mother of Rufus pitched in and did her part, extending motherly comfort and counsel with her matronly presence. Women of all ages are needed in the Lord’s Army! Last but not least, Julia and Nereus’ sister were included in Paul’s closing thoughts. I can just imagine the motivation Paul’s meaningful compliments afforded these committed women!  Their heart’s cry still rings loud and clear:  “Make use of me, my God!” 

Make use of me, my God!

Let me not be forgot;

A broken vessel cast aside,

One whom thou needest not.

All things do serve Thee here,

All creatures, great and small;

Make use of me, of me, my God –

The meanest of them all.

God Bless,

Pam

Isaiah 60:1&2

Copyright 2002 Pamela A. Iannello

Revised 2004