The theme of God using what we have is a recurring motif throughout the Bible, illustrating His sovereignty and ability to work through the ordinary and the humble to achieve His divine purposes. This concept underscores the belief that God equips and empowers individuals, regardless of their perceived limitations, to fulfill His will.

Old Testament Examples

1. Moses and His Staff: In Exodus 4:2, God asks Moses, "What is that in your hand?" Moses replies, "A staff." God then uses this simple shepherd's staff to perform miracles, such as parting the Red Sea (Exodus 14:16) and bringing water from a rock (Exodus 17:5-6). This demonstrates how God can transform ordinary objects into instruments of His power.

2. David and His Sling: In 1 Samuel 17, David, a young shepherd, faces the giant Goliath with nothing but a sling and five smooth stones. Despite the odds, David declares, "The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear, will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine" (1 Samuel 17:37). God uses David's skill and faith to defeat Goliath, showcasing that divine strength often manifests through human weakness.

3. The Widow’s Oil: In 2 Kings 4:1-7, a widow approaches the prophet Elisha for help. She has nothing but a small jar of oil. Elisha instructs her to gather empty vessels and pour her oil into them. Miraculously, the oil multiplies, providing enough to pay her debts and sustain her family. This account highlights God's provision through what seems insufficient.

New Testament Examples

1. The Feeding of the Five Thousand: In John 6:1-14, Jesus feeds a multitude with five barley loaves and two small fish provided by a boy. Jesus gives thanks and distributes the food, and it miraculously multiplies to feed everyone with leftovers. This miracle illustrates how God can use even the smallest offerings to meet great needs.

2. The Widow’s Mite: In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus observes a poor widow contributing two small coins to the temple treasury. He commends her, saying, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others" (Mark 12:43). Her offering, though small, is significant in God's eyes because it represents her total trust and devotion.

3. The Apostle Paul: In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul speaks of a "thorn in the flesh" and how God responds to his plea for relief: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." Paul learns that his limitations are opportunities for God's power to be displayed, emphasizing that God can use personal weaknesses for His glory.

Theological Implications

The principle that God uses what we have is deeply rooted in the understanding of divine providence and grace. It reflects the belief that God is not limited by human constraints and that He often chooses the humble and the lowly to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-29). This theme encourages believers to offer their talents, resources, and lives to God, trusting that He can multiply and use them for His kingdom.

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to recognize and offer their gifts, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem. The accounts of Moses, David, and others serve as reminders that God values availability over ability. Christians are called to trust in God's power to work through their lives, using their unique circumstances and resources to further His mission on earth.