Do You Qualify for Greatness?

Have you ever felt unworthy of being used by God, disqualifying yourself from doing great things? I believe that some religious teachings today have unintentionally held us back, making us feel as though we haven't earned the right for God to work through us.

Here's what I mean. Over the years, I've seen many talented and gifted people come and go through the church doors. One moment, they're present at every service, and the next, they disappear for weeks or months. Sound familiar?

Religion often labels these individuals as "uncommitted" or "backslidden." But the truth is, many of them are deeply hungry to live in harmony with God and fulfill their God-given purpose.

So, where did things go wrong?

In my opinion, one reason people give up on God—and on church—is due to a misunderstanding of what it means to be "righteous." We've been led to believe that God is pleased with us only when we behave perfectly. On the flip side, when we sin, we think we're at risk of losing His approval.

Romans 4:22-24 says, "And because of Abraham’s faith, God counted him as righteous. And when God counted him as righteous, it wasn’t just for Abraham’s benefit. It was recorded for our benefit, too, assuring us that God will also count us as righteous if we believe in him, the one who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead." (NLT)

I used to struggle with this scripture. I would ask, "God, how could you count Abraham as righteous? He disobeyed you multiple times and even lied about his wife being his sister—twice!"

But now I see it.

Abraham wasn't deemed righteous because of his flawless behavior; he was considered righteous because he believed in God. Period.

The Greek word for "righteous" is "dikaiosýnē," which means "the approval of God" or "divine approval." As verse 24 assures us, you, too, are considered righteous before God if you simply believe in Jesus. This doesn't mean sin is acceptable—it's not. But our sin doesn't disqualify us from God’s love, support, or blessing.

"For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one man’s obedience many will be made righteous."

Romans 5:19

"For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous" (Romans 5:19, NKJV).

Through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, you have been made righteous. No person and no sin can take that away from you. You have God's stamp of approval. He has qualified you to accomplish great things. So, have confidence—you can do anything with Him on your side!