Background
I once met a young man who had a deep passion for ministry. He loved to serve, to teach, and to reach others with God’s Word. But each time he was offered a greater opportunity to lead, he’d pull back and say, “I’m not ready. I still struggle with some things. I don’t think God can really use someone like me yet.”
And I understood his heart.
Because so many of us believe that God only uses “perfect” people.
We look at our flaws, our past, our weaknesses—and we assume we’re disqualified from being useful in God’s hands.
But friend, the truth is this:
God doesn’t wait for you to be perfect before He starts using you.
He is the Creator of all things—and He can use anyone, in any state, to accomplish His divine purpose.
Let’s explore why perfection is not a requirement for divine assignment.
1. God Created Everything—And He Can Use Anything
Since God is the Creator of all things, He can choose to work through anyone and anything to fulfil His purpose.
In the Bible, we see that God used King Cyrus (Isaiah 45:1), a Persian king who didn’t even know Him, to free His people from captivity.
He used Nebuchadnezzar, the Babylonian king, as part of His plan—even after the king’s pride led to a season of humility.
These were not godly men in the way we’d expect, yet God still used them.
If God can use kings, donkeys (Numbers 22:28), and even enemies to carry out His plan, then surely He can use you—with your journey, imperfections, and growth in progress.
2. God Transforms Us as We Walk With Him
When God begins to use us, He doesn’t expect perfection—but He does expect surrender.
Spiritual growth is a process.
We don’t remain at the same level—we grow as we walk with God.
The Bible compares spiritual maturity to a child growing from milk to solid food:
“Anyone who lives on milk… is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature…” – Hebrews 5:13–14
As believers, we begin with simple faith—but we are expected to grow, develop, and become more spiritually discerning.
But the growth doesn’t disqualify the usefulness. Even while growing, God uses us.
Just like a baby can still bring joy to a family while learning to walk, you too can be impactful while learning to stand strong in your faith.
3. God’s Grace Is Greater Than Our Flaws
The entire message of the Gospel is built on this truth:
None of us are good enough—but grace qualifies us.
“But God demonstrates His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
You don’t need a spotless record to be used by God. You need a surrendered heart.
Look at Paul (formerly Saul). He wasn’t just a sinner—he was a violent persecutor of the church.
But after encountering Jesus, God turned him into one of the greatest apostles who ever lived.
Paul himself wrote:
“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect…” – 1 Corinthians 15:10
God’s grace rewrites our story and redirects our purpose.
4. Peter Was Flawed—Yet God Chose Him
Peter is one of the most relatable figures in the Bible.
He was passionate but impulsive. Bold but inconsistent.
He denied Jesus three times at the moment Jesus needed him most (Luke 22:54–62).
But Jesus still restored him.
In John 21, we see the beautiful moment where Jesus doesn’t shame Peter. Instead, He recommissions him:
“Feed my sheep.”
Peter went on to preach powerfully on the day of Pentecost—bringing 3,000 souls to Christ.
God didn’t reject Peter because of failure. He redeemed him and still used him.
5. You Don’t Need to “Fix Yourself” First
Many people delay serving God or stepping into their calling because they feel they need to “get themselves together” first.
But friend, if we could perfect ourselves, we wouldn’t need Jesus.
God wants you to come as you are—and He will handle the transformation.
Don’t let guilt or shame stop you from stepping forward.
Your story, your past, and your struggles can become the very tool God uses to reach others.
There is someone out there who will relate to your journey.
6. Growth Is Expected—Not Perfection
God doesn’t call us to stay as we are—but He also doesn’t expect us to become perfect overnight.
Growth in Christ is progressive.
- Today you may still be learning how to trust.
- Tomorrow you’ll learn how to serve with joy.
- Next week, you’ll teach someone else what you’ve learned.
The Bible says:
“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion…” – Philippians 1:6
Let God perfect the work in you.
Don’t disqualify yourself while He’s still building you.
7. God Will Perfect All That Concerns You
“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me…” – Psalm 138:8
This scripture is your assurance that while you may still have rough edges, God is smoothing you out.
You are His workmanship (Ephesians 2:10), and He is not done with you yet.
If He began something in you, He will bring it to completion.
All He asks is that you stay open, humble, and available.
Final Note
Friend, don’t let your imperfections hold you back from serving God.
He’s not looking for perfect people—He’s looking for willing people.
He used a stammering Moses, a doubtful Gideon, a broken Rahab, a grieving Naomi, and a weeping Jeremiah.
He can use you too.
So stop disqualifying yourself.
Let God work through your flaws, build your faith, and write a testimony through your journey.
The same God who called imperfect people before is still calling people today—and He’s calling you.
What You Can Do Next
- Reflect: What area of your life have you been holding back from God because you feel unworthy?
- Comment below and share your thoughts—your words might encourage someone else.
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