Yesterday I challenged the people of my church to use their influence for the kingdom of God.

Inevitably, when a pastor makes that kind of challenge, some–maybe many–people will immediately go to the default setting that says “I am not worthy.”

How do you get beyond those feelings? What principles can we emphasize to counteract the feeling of inadequacy in our lives?

First, remember who you are in Christ–and remember you aren’t the source of who you are in Christ. He is the source of who we are.

Who are we in Christ? We are a new creation. “What this means is that those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NLT).

Second, we must live on what God says rather than what our past or our family may tell us. In other words, I must listen to God and His Word over my circumstances or my acquaintances.

I do this by reciting the truth of God’s Word. I seek to hide God’s Word in my heart so that the Holy Spirit may bring it to mind when I need to hear it.

Third, we must obey God’s commands. If God tells me to be an influence or witness or anything else, I must obey God and not man. Who am I to tell God I can’t do what He says to do? I am simply a servant who must obey.

Fourth, remember all the examples of “unworthy” people who God used in mighty ways. Moses and David come immediately to mind.

Finally, God never made anyone to be thrown away. Some of us have more gifts than others, but we all have gifts. God has a purpose for you–even broken, fallen people.

Lift up your head. Trust Christ and depend on Him. Give Him your best in service. He will provide all that you need.

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