D. L. Moody was one of the most famous and influential preachers of the gospel in US history. The preacher, who lived in the 19th century, also founded Moody Bible Institute and began publishing Christian books—scarce at the time. Both MBI and Moody Publishers continue to function more than a century after his death. Surely such a renowned believer in Jesus was highly trained and educated! But that doesn’t describe Moody. He had very little education and worked as a humble shoe salesman for years before his conversion.
D. L. Moody’s example seems to be an exception, but it’s actually consistent with what we find in the New Testament. In Acts 4:5-14, Peter gave a compelling explanation of the miracle he had performed—it was Jesus who made this miracle possible (Acts 4:10). One might assume that Peter was highly trained as a biblical scholar and public speaker, but the authorities couldn’t help but note that he and John were “ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures” (Acts 4:13).
This is a great illustration of a principle found throughout Scripture: God doesn’t call the best equipped; rather, He equips those He has called. This was the case with Peter, but also with Moses—a man who said he was a clumsy speaker and yet was told to call out the most powerful man in the world! (Exodus 4:10). It was also the case with David, who—compared to King Saul—was small and unimpressive (1 Samuel 9:2).
Like me, perhaps you’re quick to discount yourself because of your inabilities, assuming that because you’re not very good at something, you can’t do it. But God often uses the weak and seemingly insignificant, calling and equipping them to be used in big ways for His glory.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Romans 8:19-39
More:
Read Acts 9:1-19 for another example of a man who was equipped by God for a ministry for which he appeared to be poorly suited.
Next:
What’s more important in your decision-making process, your ability or your calling? How do we make sure we’re truly being called to do something?
TimConstable on November 22, 2015 at 5:30 am
Has it ever crossed anyone’s mind that this ‘God equips the called’ concept can cause dilemma and frustration to those who ARE gifted? It was discovered I was musical when I was four. At an early age I got into a cathedral choir, had four years music education. In my teens, with no understanding from my parents (and little love) I developed songwriting skills. In my 20’s I started playing in bands; eventually a band formed around me (I didn’t go out and force it) to perform my material – but we never achieved professional success. When I was 40 – Jesus saved me! It eventually became known I had music ‘talent’. I soon became called on to be a keyboard player and even leader with worship teams. I also continued being very prolific as a songwriter and composer, no professional recognition or support, and only a few knowing of my own material. But those few have been embarrassingly complimentary about my work. As I grew in the Lord, I learned to keep this in perspective. But not being one to ‘blow my own trumpet’, still very few know of what I regard as the most important part of my music gift; inspired composing of new songs for the Lord. For so many years I’ve been asking the Lord for contacts and outlets for my work, but nothing. A number of potential things have come up, but despite prayer, have ‘fizzled out’. So here I am in my early 60’s, a stack of varied original material to honour the Lord with, and no outlets! And, true, no harvest from many 1000’s of hours during my life dedicated to using my gift. So what do I conclude? ‘God equips the called’.. so perhaps God has been calling me to do something else – something I’m NOT gifted for – and I’ve stupidly let music distract me from it? And all those ministries that have called upon and benefited from my gift, they weren’t listening to God either, just taking advantage of me? And at the age of 60+ I’ll finally discover my calling in some area I’m not yet equipped for? When I’ve been trying to fulfill what I THOUGHT was my calling… and be a blessing to many Christians… yes, and receive a harvest…. in what has become a young persons industry? How many timed have I heard “Moses didn’t begin his ministry til he was 80?”! It’s like music has been in my DNA (since I was 4) – do I deny my DNA? I’m sorry if this has been a bit of a rant, bit I’ve heard this ‘equips the called’ idea just one time too many!! And I’m sure there are others in the body of Christ in just as much of a dilemma as I am. Well you did invite comment – when I started, I had no idea so much would pour out!!
Gary Shultz on November 22, 2015 at 6:38 am
A rather complete article and it is great that pea-brains can still take courage. It was also very interesting to hear Tim’s story. Although never having the gifts and education I find myself in my sixties and feel more alive in Christ than ever. May we find what Christ has for us each day. Thanks, maybe thankful at Thanksgiving.
greatfulgrace75 on November 22, 2015 at 3:42 pm
For TimC- I too have another passion that does not fall in line with what God is calling me to do. I enjoy learning about Natural Resources and teaching environmental education. I wish I could pursue that passion, but it is not meant to be. It is hard, because I question why I have this desire, yet am asked to do something else. I know though, that when I choose to walk God’s path, he will put me in the place I need to be-for my benefit, other’s benefit, and his glory. I know the secret to life is to be of service, I just have to open my heart and let it happen. I ask God to help you, me, and others who need to follow their true heart.