God Qualifies the Called

Opening Verse:

“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.”
— 1 Corinthians 1:27 (KJV)

Introduction:

God doesn’t choose people based on their abilities, qualifications, or status. Instead, He calls those whose hearts are willing, and He equips them for His purpose. This truth reassures us that no matter how inadequate we feel, God’s grace is sufficient to empower us for His work.

Devotional Story:

Amy was a single mother working two jobs to provide for her children. Church and prayer were her only form of peace. One Sunday, the pastor announced a need for someone to lead the children’s ministry. Amy felt a stirring in her heart but quickly dismissed it. “I’m not qualified,” she thought. “I don’t have teaching experience or a theology degree.”

Weeks passed, and the need remained unmet. During a prayer meeting, Amy heard the pastor share the story of Moses, a man who doubted his ability to lead but was empowered by God to free His people. The pastor concluded with these words: “God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.”

The words gripped Amy’s heart. She hesitantly volunteered, feeling nervous and unprepared. But as she began teaching, Amy discovered a gift she didn’t know she had. The children loved her storytelling and the creative ways she explained Bible lessons. Over time, Amy realized that God had been preparing her through her life experiences, giving her the patience and compassion needed to guide these children.

What This Means:

God’s calling is not dependent on our qualifications but on our availability. When we say “yes” to Him, He supplies the strength, wisdom, and resources we need to succeed. Like Amy, we often discover that God has already equipped us in ways we didn’t expect. God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called!

Think About This:

• Have you felt inadequate for something God is calling you to do? Remember Moses, David, and the apostles—none were chosen for their credentials, but for their hearts.
• How can you step out in faith today, trusting that God will provide what you need?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me despite my weaknesses. Help me to trust that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. Equip me for the tasks You have called me to, and give me the courage to step out in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.”
— 2 Corinthians 3:5 (KJV)