“There’s a reason God chooses the way He does. . . . God chooses those in whom He can develop a strong root system. And it’s actually to His advantage to choose those who don’t feel qualified for the job, because they are less likely to think they can rely on themselves to make anything happen.”- Banning Liebscher
“You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit.”- John 15:16
As Banning Liebscher concludes Chapter 4 of Rooted, he presents the second truth enabling us to live from faith and rest.
2. God chose us for this journey of stewardship. Pastor Liebscher notes it’s a good sign when you find yourself pleading your inadequacy to the Lord. While it’s not fun, your over-your-head journey repeatedly brings you face to face with your insecurities, weaknesses, and inadequacies.
In those moments we need to take the words of John 15:16 to heart. Since God chose you, Banning asserts, either God knows you have what it takes or He’ll give you what you need. Therefore, your confidence rests not in your ability to do, but in God’s ability to choose. Furthermore, the author explains, there’s a deeper level of God’s choice for you to rest in:
“God didn’t chose you just to fulfill a particular calling or job for Him; He chose you to be His child.”
As a result, resting in that truth shuts down any pressure to prove yourself. Pastor Liebscher exhorts:
“Rest in the fact that God chose you and you have nothing to prove. Let Him build the house while you focus on being a great son or daughter. Let that be what matters most.”
Today’s question: What most helps you to develop a stronger root system? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Experiencing weakness”