June 18, 2026
— Gladys Aylward · Source: Little Women
1 Corinthians 1:26-29 Brothers and sisters, consider your calling: not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God also chose the lowly things of the world, the despised things, and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are, so that none of the flesh may boast before God.
Aylward's life is a mirror, reflecting how we often shrink back because of our own limitations. We always think that we can only be used by the Lord when everything is ready and we have the ability. However, God's election is not based on what a person has, but on their obedience. Weakness and insignificance are never stumbling blocks to following the Lord and serving others, but rather vessels to demonstrate God's power and grace. When we shift our focus from our own "inability" to God's "omnipotence" and offer ourselves completely, He will personally strengthen us, enabling us to experience His unreserved provision in every seemingly impossible call.
Dear Lord who loves us, thank you for not looking down on me because of my weakness and humility, but for choosing and calling me in Christ. Grant me a simple and obedient heart like that of Walter Aylward, so that when facing the unknown ahead or the challenges of service, I will not look upon my clumsy tongue and inadequacy, but will simply hold fast to your promises in faith. Remove from my heart my timidity and inferiority, fill me with your Holy Spirit and renew me, so that I may live out your commission in my daily life, and let my life become a vessel that manifests your power and glory. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!