You Made the Team

"Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant." — 2 Corinthians 3:5-6

Have you ever wondered if you're good enough for God to use you?

When I was in ninth grade, I tried out for the basketball team. At 5'4" tall, I didn't exactly look the part. I watched the coach scrutinize us through the drills, knowing that not everyone would make the cut. He told us he'd post the names on his door the next morning.

That was one sleepless night. I wondered if there would be a place for someone my size on the team. The next day at 8:00 a.m., I rushed to his office. I scanned down the list of names—and there I was. I made the cut. First string!

Here's what I need you to hear today: You made the team.

When you turned from sin and placed your faith in Christ, God stamped His approval on your life. You don't need special credentials. You don't need to feel worthy. Paul says our competence doesn't come from ourselves—it comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers.

Many people discount themselves from ministry because they don't feel good enough. They've listened to voices from their past—maybe a parent, a teacher, a friend—who told them they weren't enough. Stop listening to those voices. When you gave your life to Christ, you received God's approval. That's the only approval that matters.

It has nothing to do with your ability. It has everything to do with what He has done for you. Your life is hidden in Christ. You are saved, you are being saved, and you will ultimately be saved.

You made the cut. You're on God's team. He wants to use you to do ministry because you are in Christ Jesus. When you understand that you have God's approval, you'll be ready to speak with confidence and serve with passion.

Don't let anyone tell you that you haven't been approved by God. You have His stamp of approval. Now step onto the court and play.