R.G. LeTourneau was a prolific inventor and devout Christian who revolutionized earth-moving machinery. In fact, 75% of the equipment used by Allied forces during World War II was based on his inventions. He held over 299 patents related to earthmoving equipment, manufacturing processes, and machine tools.
I first heard about him in a message by Pastor Chris Delvan, where he shared how LeTourneau drew divine inspiration from observing how beetles and other earth-moving insects burrow into the ground. This insight became pivotal in the design of many of his machines.
Now, you may be wondering — what does R.G. LeTourneau have to do with me?
For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. — Romans 8:19 (KJV)
All of creation eagerly awaits the manifestation of God’s children. Throughout scripture, we see how pioneering works were birthed. God, the ultimate pioneer, created the heavens and the earth, light, and vegetation — ultimately giving man dominion over it all. One way we express this dominion is through pioneering great works.
We see this pattern in Abraham, who pioneered a life of faith, laying the foundation for blessings we still enjoy today. Jesus pioneered an intimate walk with God, making it possible for God to dwell within us. And that same pioneering Spirit is at work within us today.
I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions. — Proverbs 8:12 (KJV);
God has now entrusted us with the responsibility of pioneering new things. Like LeTourneau, we are called to create, build, and innovate in our generation. Not everyone may be called to start something groundbreaking every day, but we all have something to contribute — whether by supporting a pioneer, leading in our families, or simply deepening our walk with God.
But perhaps you’re thinking, I feel I should do something, but I’m not sure if God is leading me. I’m waiting for an audible voice from heaven saying, “My child, My child, this is the way to go.”
If you keep waiting for that, you may wait until you have no strength left. Instead, here are a few ways to discern God’s leading:
- The Self-Test: Is this about fulfilling a personal desire, or is it a sense of duty and assignment? If it’s the latter, you are likely on the right path.
- The Money Test: Is your motivation solely financial gain? Value attracts money, but if money is your primary pursuit, you may need to check your heart.
- The Confirmation Test: Are there multiple confirmations? God will not leave us without His word. If we take time to pray and study scripture, He will lead us into all truth. John 16:13 says, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth…”
- Once you sense God’s direction, don’t delay — start immediately. Imagine if Joseph hadn’t been led into Egypt; Abraham’s lineage, David, and even Jesus Himself could have been wiped out by famine.
God is calling us to pioneer.
The world is waiting.
Will you answer?
Have a blessed week
Mayowa Oladunjoye
LinkedIn: @Mayowa Oladunjoye
Push Buttons is a weekly devotional of The Powerpoint Tribe.