Qualified Versus Chosen

He doesn’t need us, but He wants to use us. Pretty bizarre, right? The God of the universe, the creator of heaven and earth, wants to use you and me—just like He wanted to use the disciples about 2,000 years ago.

Bizarre.
But true.

Are you and I qualified? Uhm, I don’t think so. In fact, I’m sure we’re not. Is it about being qualified? Do we need to bring something to the table? Or can we trust in God’s grace: He does it, He gives it, it all comes from Him?

Not qualified, but called. And, as the beautiful old saying goes: “He doesn’t call the qualified, but He qualifies the called.” That’s you and me. I find that to be an encouraging truth.

Maybe you and I need to focus less on what we bring and learn to trust more in the fact that He equips us—yet another freeing truth. Hold on to that!

One of the disciples’ objections was that they were being sent out so quickly. Like: "But Master, shouldn’t we learn more, walk with You longer, know more?" But no, Jesus sends them out: "go ahead, try, do it—and do it from the relationship you have with me—Jesus." Do you dare to do that? Do you dare to step out, set out on the journey, trust that He will give you what you need, even if you can’t see it yet.

I think we are often too hesitant. We want to know more first, take it slow, and be cautious. Whether it’s about the things we pray for or the place we give young people in our churches, we often err on the side of caution. Why is that?

With Jesus, we see something different here. A command and an invitation. Step out. Go and do it. Try, and in that process—however daunting—just trust in Jesus.

Take the following questions with you to reflect on:

• What do you feel qualified for?
• Do you know you are called by Jesus? For what?
• Do you jump in quickly, or do you prefer to proceed with caution? Why?
• What is Jesus asking of you today, and how can you be obedient in that?

Prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to follow You. Help me to trust that You will equip me for what You are calling me to. Thank You that You are always with me and that I can trust in You. Lord, teach me what I truly need. Lord, the things I think about myself sometimes hinder me from following You: .. [speak those things out to Jesus]. Help me to hold on to the truth that You do not call the qualified, but that You qualify the called. You are my hope. Amen.”