1 Timothy 1:12-13

"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief." NKJV

"Why would God use me?" "I've done terrible things in my past, so how can I minister to others?"

We've all been there and have stood on the edge of a ministry opportunity facing doubts and fears. "What if they don't believe me?" "I don't have a degree in theology." "What do I know?" All these questions and thoughts cloud our perspective and leave us unmoved and powerless -- unless we grab hold of the Truth.

2 Corinthians 3:5: "It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God." NLT

Yes, we are weak vessels. Yes, we may stumble at times, but our power does not lie inside ourselves. Our power comes from the One who created heaven and earth. The power that raised Jesus from the dead is the same power that fills us as followers of Christ. It is God who equips us and strengthens us for ministry. Whether you are a full time pastor or a volunteer at the church, God is the One equipping you to impact lives for eternity. Admit your weaknesses and then step out in faith trusting the power of the One who has saved you. In Him, you will find victory over fear and power to reach a lost and dying world with the Gospel.

Life Lesson: When the Lord calls you into ministry, He alone equips you.

Dear God, 
Thank You for the salvation found in Jesus Christ. I praise You for the forgiveness of sins and the new life. Lord, help me to overcome my fears or doubts. Empower me to step out in faith into ministry wherever I am today. Use me to reach this lost world for Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen.