The dictionary defines a pawn as:

1. An object used to deposit as security, such as money
2. A person used as a hostage
3. A piece in a Chess game
4. Someone who is used to further another’s purposes

I want to focus on the last definition because it is likely we all read the definition in a negative sense.

For example, a young person can get caught up in the wrong crowd and used by others more cunning than himself. Sooner or later, that young person would realize they were just a pawn used to get something for the group. And in some cases, they might even continue in that role to earn favor with those that are using them (playing dumb for the sake of acceptance).

In a different example, a pawn might be someone who is used by the “good guys” to draw out and expose the bad guys. This is common among authorities and informants.

What if we are God’s pawns?

God is not required to tell us everything He is doing. The Bible says we wouldn’t understand everything anyway. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, says the Lord” (Isaiah 55:8).

There have been times in my life when my actions brought about a different result than I was expecting. What I’ve learned is, as you walk with God and determine to stay close to His heart, then it’s understandable to expect things to turn out “rosy” –but sometimes they don’t.

In that case, you have to ask the Lord, “Did I miss it?” – “Was I in the flesh?” – “Did the enemy use me?” – Or, “Did you use me Lord to reveal hidden truth?”

The Lord will answer you.

Not everything bad that happens in life is of the devil. But God isn’t the author of evil either. God is a revealer of truth. And if necessary, He will set His pawns just right to capture another. So maybe Chess is a game in Heaven?

What I mean is, it’s good to recognize the variety of ways God will use us to further His purpose, even if all we’ve been used to do is expose the enemy’s lies.

“[Love] does not rejoice about injustice but [ultimately, Love] rejoices whenever the truth wins out” (1 Corinthians 13:6). My prayer at the beginning of this year is that I would be a vessel of honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work (2 Timothy 2:21).

With this understanding, a pawn isn’t a negative role.

As Isaiah said, “Here I am, send me.” Use me. Let my life help others find You. Show me how to draw others closer to You and away from the lies and schemes of the enemy.

The Lord is definitely strategic. And as followers of Christ, our heart should always be ready to fulfill His purpose.