Called by God

February 27, 2007

By Greg Ebie

Perhaps you have heard it said, “God does not call the qualified; God qualifies the called.” Those who are willing to answer God’s call are transformed by God through the process of obedience to the Word of the Lord.

This principle is seen at work in Gideon. When God called Gideon to rescue Israel from the oppressive armies of the Midianites, Gideon was hiding from his enemies. Gideon argued with God about his qualifications.

“How could I save Israel?” Gideon protested. “My clan is the weakest in the tribe of Manasseh, and I’m the least in my family” (see Judges 6:15).

When Gideon took his first steps of obedience he did so at night so no one would know what he had done for God. But as Gideon’s story unfolds, we discover a dramatic change within Gideon. Through his obedience Gideon was no longer timid and uncertain about himself; instead he became bold and decisive in doing God’s will.

“He said to the men of Succoth, ‘Give my troops some bread; they are worn out, and I am still pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian.’

“But the officials of Succoth said, ‘Do you already have the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna in your possession? Why should we give bread to your troops?’

“Then Gideon replied, ‘Just for that, when the Lord has given Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, I will tear your flesh with desert thorns and briers.’

“From there he went up to Peniel and made the same request of them, but they answered as the men of Succoth had. So he said to the men of Peniel, ‘When I return in triumph, I will tear down this tower’ ” (Judges 8:5-9, NIV).

As Gideon and his 300 men pursued their enemies they made a simple request of bread and water from the leaders in Succoth and Peniel. Because those towns were unwilling to offer any help, Gideon said he would return and treat them as his enemies. Gideon achieved victory and was true to his word when he returned. Gideon had gained strength and courage because he knew he was carrying out the will of God.

How about you? Are you like Gideon before he was willing to answer God’s call? Are you debating with God about your qualifications? Would you rather God ask someone else?

Step out in obedience. Say yes to the Lord and follow Him wherever He leads you. Say whatever He asks you to say; do whatever He asks you to do. You will discover not only is God’s will being done, but God is changing you in the process.

The called are qualified by God. God does not expect you to do in your own ability what He asks of you. God will work in and through a willing heart to accomplish His purposes with His strength, while simultaneously transforming you into the person He knows you can become.

D. Greg Ebie is senior pastor of Praise Assembly of God in Garrettsville, Ohio, and an author of Daily Bread devotionals.