We had an in-house meeting this week with Sue leading and Jane speaking.

Jane brought a message about playing second fiddle! The term refers in a negative way to a supporting or minor role often implying that one is in a subordinate position, overshadowed, undervalued, perhaps waiting in the shadows or on the side line for a moment to shine – a sense of being second best or second rate!

In an orchestra from whence the term originally came, the second violins are not second best or second rate.  They are very important as they usually play a harmonic role to support the first violins –  and very well they do it too!

Charles Spurgeon, Baptist preacher and founder of Spurgeon’s college said, “It takes more grace or skill than I can tell to play the second fiddle well!” How true that is!

Jane then brought us four characters from the Bible, John the Baptist, Joshua, Elisha and Andrew (the first-called disciple of Jesus), who on the face of it, played second fiddle.  Were they second best or second rate? Not at all! Playing second fiddle in the Bible highlights humility, support and serving in subordinate roles to fulfil a greater purpose, focusing on God’s glory over personal prominence. All of these characters shone like stars and served God faithfully and fruitfully.

Jane asked if we had ever felt as if we had been playing second fiddle, second best or second rate, just waiting for our moment to shine! We were encouraged to know and believe that we are dearly loved and called by God to serve Him just as we are and for such a time as this with the gifts, talents and abilities that He has given to us. We are unique and special!

Jane referred to her reading of 1 Corinthians 3 v 9 – we are God’s fellow-workers and we all have a part to play in the Lord’s harvest.  We were encouraged not to compare ourselves to others or to try and compete.  We are His instruments and He will reward our faithfulness and fruitfulness.

And Jane’s song to close? I have a destiny (Mark Altrogge). “I did not choose You but You have chosen me and appointed me for bearing fruit abundantly. I know You will complete the work begun in me, by the power of Your Spirit working mightily.”