Unqualified But Called: A Powerful Morning at Cedar Falls Christian Church
Some mornings stay with you long after the “Amen” — and today was one of them.
I had the honor of speaking again at Cedar Falls Christian Church for the second time this month, and from the moment I walked through the doors, I felt something familiar: genuine warmth, and a community that embraces people with open arms. Preaching is always a privilege, but preaching to a church that’s so receptive and engaged feels like a gift.
Today’s message, “Unqualified But Called,” is a sermon that reflects not only the stories of Moses and Gideon but also my own story. And the way this church received it reminded me, once again, that God uses ordinary, imperfect people to do extraordinary things.
A Message for Anyone Who’s Ever Felt Unqualified
This morning, I shared something I never imagined I’d preach: that feeling unqualified doesn’t disqualify you from God’s call.
In fact, it often means He’s preparing you.
We walked through the familiar stories of Moses in Exodus 4 and Gideon in Judges 6, two men whose first reaction to God’s call wasn’t courage… but fear. They questioned their abilities, their background, their voice, their identity — everything except God’s power.
Moses said,
“I have never been eloquent… I am slow of speech.”
And Gideon said,
“My clan is the weakest… and I am the least.”
Yet God responded to both with the same truth:
“I am with you.”
That was the heart of the message. God doesn’t call us after we feel ready. He calls us in the middle of our fears, insecurities, and protests — and equips us along the way.
A Church That Leaned In With Their Heart Open
One of the things that struck me most this morning was how deeply Cedar Falls Christian Church engaged with the message. When a congregation is truly present, you can feel it.
People weren’t just listening…
They were receiving.
They were reflecting.
They were taking notes, nodding, laughing at the light moments, and leaning into the tougher truths.
As a speaker, that kind of posture fills your heart.
As someone stepping into a calling you once didn’t think applied to you, it affirms everything God has been whispering.
And multiple conversations after the service proved that God wasn’t just speaking to me — He was speaking through the message to them.
A Thanksgiving Potluck Filled With Community & Connection
After service, I was invited to stay for the church Thanksgiving potluck, and I’m so glad I did.
There’s something timeless and sacred about Christians gathering around a table. It’s fellowship in its purest form — food, laughter, stories, and encouragement. I met new faces, reconnected with familiar ones, and heard personal reflections on the message in a casual, heartfelt setting.
You can preach from a pulpit, but you connect around a table.
This morning, I was blessed to experience both.
Why This Morning Mattered
Driving home afterward, I couldn’t help but thank God:
For a church that receives His Word with humility and excitement
For a message that resonates with anyone who has ever doubted themselves
For a potluck filled with warmth, gratitude, and community
For continued confirmation of the calling God has placed on my life
I didn’t chase this opportunity — God opened it.
I didn’t plan for it — God orchestrated it.
I didn’t feel qualified — God reminded me He only asks for availability.
To the wonderful people of Cedar Falls Christian Church: thank you for welcoming me, encouraging me, and allowing me to serve your congregation today. I look forward to many more moments of worship, community, and ministry together.
If Moses and Gideon taught us anything, it’s this:
God’s calling isn’t about your confidence — it’s about your obedience.
And today, surrounded by a church that embodies warmth and grace, I was reminded once again that God equips those who say “yes.”
Watch the Sermon
Watch the sermon on the Cedar Falls Christian Church YouTube Channel
