The Power of One: How One Person Can Change the World
“…The power of one is not in strength, but in faithfulness. A single voice, lifted for righteousness, can shake a nation.” (William Wilberforce)
In a world that has a population of more than 8 billion, it’s easy to feel insignificant. We may wonder, “What difference can one person really make?” But history, scripture, and everyday life teach us that one person—one determined, faithful individual—can spark change and inspire generations. Whether it’s through an act of kindness, a step of faith, or a bold decision, the power of one is undeniable.
God’s Pattern: Using One Person for a Greater Purpose
The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who, by faith, became instruments of God’s divine plan.
- Noah was one man who obeyed God, and through him, humanity was preserved (Genesis 6-9).
- Abraham followed God’s call, and his faith became the foundation of a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3).
- Joseph was sold into slavery but later saved an entire region from famine (Genesis 50:20).
- Moses stood alone before Pharaoh and led an entire nation to freedom (Exodus 3-14).
- Esther risked her life and saved her people from destruction (Esther 4:14)
- David, just a shepherd boy, faced Goliath and proved that victory belongs to those who trust in the Lord (1 Samuel 17).
- Mary said yes to God’s calling and became the mother of the Saviour (Luke 1:38).
- Jesus Christ, the ultimate example, changed the course of history through His life, death, and resurrection.
God never needs a crowd to bring transformation—He only needs one willing heart. As the great missionary Oswald Chambers said:
“God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power. We may often feel insignificant, but one person, fully yielded to God, can accomplish more than a thousand who rely on their own strength. God does not ask for numbers—He asks for faithfulness.”
One Person in Action: Examples in Recent History
Harriet Tubman: The Deliverer
Born into slavery, Harriet Tubman could have sought freedom for herself and disappeared into safety. Instead, she returned again and again to rescue others, leading more than 300 slaves to freedom. Her faith in God was unwavering.
She once said: “I always told God, ‘I’m going to hold steady on You, and You’ve got to see me through.’”
She exemplified Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
Mother Teresa: The Compassionate Servant
A single nun in India, Mother Teresa saw suffering and refused to look away. She began with nothing but faith and a willingness to serve. Today, her mission has touched millions.
She famously said: “If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.”
Her life echoes Matthew 25:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
- William Wilberforce: The Man Who Stood Against Slavery
At a time when the world accepted slavery as normal, one man refused to stay silent. William Wilberforce, a British politician and devout Christian, spent decades fighting for the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. His perseverance and faith led to the passage of the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833.
His life reflects Proverbs 31:8: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.”
- Corrie ten Boom: A Light in the Darkness
During World War II, Corrie ten Boom and her family hid Jewish refugees in their home, risking their own lives. Even after being imprisoned in a concentration camp, she chose forgiveness over bitterness, preaching about God’s love after the war.
She famously said: “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”
Her life embodies Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
These people remind us that even small acts of faithfulness can have an eternal impact. As Jesus said in Matthew 25:23: “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.”
You Can Be the One
The world may seem overwhelming, but God has placed you where you are for a reason. The simple acts you do—encouraging a friend, sharing the gospel, serving others—can ripple across generations.
- A mother raising her children in faith shapes future leaders.
- A student standing for truth influences their peers.
- A neighbour offering kindness brings hope to the lonely.
“The impact of one surrendered life can change the course of history. God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. If you are willing to stand for Him, He will use you in ways you cannot imagine.” (Billy Graham)
