God Doesn't Call the Qualified, He Qualifies the Called: Exploring Faith and Calling
The phrase "God doesn't call the qualified, he qualifies the called" is a powerful statement of faith, often used to inspire and comfort those feeling inadequate or unprepared for a specific task or life path. It speaks to the core of God's grace and the transformative power of faith. This saying suggests that God's choice isn't based on our inherent abilities or achievements but on his divine plan and his ability to equip us for the journey. Let's delve deeper into the meaning and implications of this profound statement.
What does "God doesn't call the qualified" actually mean?
This part of the statement highlights God's sovereignty. It means that God doesn't select individuals based on their existing skills, experience, or qualifications as we understand them. He doesn't choose the most capable, the most intelligent, or the most experienced. Instead, he chooses those he has called, regardless of their perceived shortcomings. This counters the human tendency to rely on our own abilities and self-sufficiency. It emphasizes that our worthiness comes from God's grace, not our merit.
How does God "qualify the called"?
This is where the transformative aspect of faith comes in. God equips and prepares those he calls through various means. This can include:
- Spiritual gifts: God bestows unique spiritual gifts upon individuals to aid them in fulfilling their calling. These gifts might include teaching, prophecy, leadership, or service, among many others.
- Guidance and direction: God provides guidance and direction through prayer, scripture, wise counsel, and even circumstances that shape and mold individuals.
- Testing and trials: Challenges and difficult experiences can refine character, build resilience, and ultimately prepare individuals for the tasks ahead. These trials often reveal hidden strengths and capacities previously unknown.
- Community and support: God often works through a community of believers, providing support, encouragement, and accountability. This network of faith is crucial in the process of qualification.
- Personal growth and development: Through ongoing learning, personal reflection, and seeking God's will, individuals grow in their understanding of their calling and acquire the necessary skills and attributes to fulfill it.
Does this mean we shouldn't strive for excellence?
Absolutely not. While God qualifies the called, this doesn't negate the importance of hard work, dedication, and striving for excellence. The statement encourages humility and reliance on God's grace, not laziness or complacency. We are still expected to utilize our talents and abilities to the best of our capacity, but recognizing our limitations and dependence on God's strength is paramount.
Isn't it presumptuous to assume God has called you?
Discerning a true calling from God requires careful consideration, prayer, and seeking wise counsel. It's a process of seeking God's will, not assuming it. This process can involve prayer, spiritual reflection, seeking guidance from trusted mentors or spiritual leaders, and observing how God is working in one's life and circumstances. It's about aligning your life with God's purpose, not imposing your own desires.
What if I feel unqualified for what I believe God is calling me to do?
Feeling unqualified is a common experience, even for those who have answered God's calling. The very essence of this phrase is to comfort those who feel inadequate. Embrace the feeling of unworthiness and surrender it to God. Trust in his ability to equip and empower you. Remember, God's grace is sufficient.
In conclusion, the statement "God doesn't call the qualified, he qualifies the called" is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and grace. It emphasizes that our qualifications don't determine our calling; it's God's choice that matters. The journey of fulfilling our calling often involves relying on God's strength, embracing challenges, and growing in faith, trusting in his ability to equip us for the tasks ahead. This journey requires humility, dedication, and perseverance—all while acknowledging our dependence on God's grace.
