O use me, Lord, use even me, Just as Thou wilt and when and where;

Every once in a while I get a call from a fellow staff member that runs something like this.

“Howard, I know it is not part of your job description, but I have a project with which I need your assistance. Do you think you could add another teaching slot to your already busy schedule? “

“Ok, Eric, I can probably work that out. Do I need to do a fresh prep for it?”

“Well, yes, that will be necessary. The subject will be 21 Century Challenges & Technological Temptations.”

“Ok, what about a time frame?”

“I have slotted you for July 21. Your topic fits between the week before you and the week after you so I don’t have any time tolerance. Thanks for being willing to serve. I knew I could count on you!”

There are three thoughts that run through my mind at times like this. “Where I am I going to get the time to do this one? You better pray about it—and I do. What research do I need to do?”

In the long run, and seldom in the short run, I am thankful for these opportunities for several reasons. Gerontology has taught me that it is important to keep learning if I want to keep my wits.

The second reason is that the Apostle has taught me that I need be growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Projects like 21 Century Challenges & Technological Temptations provide opportunity by demanding that I ask the question, “What are the theological and practical extrapolations essential to communicate to my audience so that they can implement the teaching of Scripture in the issues of life they are facing?

The third reason I am thankful for these opportunities is that they give the Lord the occasion to answer my prayer that was the result of another project in freshman speech class some 53 years ago. I was assigned the following hymn by Francis Havergal to memorize and present in class. It became my life prayer.

1. O teach me, Lord, that I may teach
The precious things Thou dost impart;
And wing my words, that they may reach
The hidden depths of many a heart.

2. O fill me with Thy fullness, Lord,
Until my very heart o’erflow
In kindling thought and glowing word
Thy love to tell, Thy praise to show

3. O use me, Lord, use even me,
Just as Thou wilt and when and where;
Until Thy blessed face I see,
Thy rest, Thy joy, Thy glory share. Amen

As I proof read this brief article, tears whelmed up at the faithfulness of my God as I contemplated these words, “use me…just as thou wilt and when and where.” Keep learning, growing, serving!

Howard Eyrich is a minister in the PCA and currently serves as Pastor of Counseling Ministries at Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham. He is the author of the best selling pre-marital counseling guide Three To Get Ready, as well as Totally Sufficient and Curing the Heart both in 2nd editions. He and his wife, Pamela, have two children and eight grandchildren.