Unschooled & Ordinary
When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13
Insight
In a world that often measures worth by accolades, titles, and achievements, it's easy to feel inadequate or unqualified for the tasks God lays before us. We may look at our limitations and shortcomings and wonder, "How could God possibly use someone like me?" Yet, the beauty of God's work is that He delights in using the unexpected, the unassuming, and the seemingly unqualified to accomplish His purposes.
Consider Peter and John, two ordinary fishermen who found themselves at the center of a divine mission.
Just months prior, fear had gripped their hearts, causing Peter to deny any association with Jesus, and the disciples to cower in hiding. But then, something remarkable happened. Filled with the Spirit, Peter and John boldly proclaimed the name of Jesus, fearlessly confronting the very authorities who had orchestrated His crucifixion.
What was it that enabled these unschooled, ordinary men to stand with such unwavering courage and conviction? It wasn't their education, their status, or their eloquence. It was something far simpler yet infinitely more powerful: their time spent with Jesus. As Acts 4:13 reveals, "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus."
Even though our culture values credentials and qualifications, this passage offers a refreshing reminder: it is not our resumes that qualify us for God's work, but our relationship with Him. God is not limited by our perceived inadequacies; rather, He delights in using the weak to confound the strong, the foolish to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27).
If you ever find yourself feeling underqualified or ill-equipped for the task at hand, take heart in this truth: God specializes in using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. Like Peter and John, all you need is a willingness to be used and a commitment to spend time in His presence.
So instead of allowing self-doubt to paralyze you, lean into your relationship with Jesus. Spend time connecting with Him daily through prayer, scripture, and worship. Allow His presence to shape and mold you, equipping you for whatever He calls you to do.
Remember, God's power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). So let go of the need to have it all together and trust that God can use even the most unlikely vessels to fulfill His purposes. As you surrender yourself to Him, you'll be amazed at what He can do through you.
Reflection
Reflect on a time when you felt underqualified or ill-equipped for a task or calling. How did you respond? Did you rely on your abilities or turn to God for strength and guidance?
Consider the significance of spending time with Jesus in relation to our readiness to be used by God. How intentional are you about cultivating your relationship with Him daily? What practices or habits can you incorporate into your life to deepen this connection?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, in moments of doubt and inadequacy, we humbly come before You, recognizing our need for Your strength and guidance. Thank You for the example of Peter and John, ordinary men empowered by their relationship with You to do extraordinary things. Grant us the courage to lean into our connection with You daily, trusting that You can use us, despite our weaknesses, to fulfill Your purposes in the world. Amen.