Spiritual doubt is a complex topic. It’s something we all deal with from time to time. Sometimes I doubt God, but something else I struggle with is self-doubt. We doubt because we know the person others don’t see, and we hear the voices in our heads that are not always kind or uplifting. Those thoughts replay in our minds, chipping away at our confidence and magnifying our insecurities. Some of you even wonder if God could really love you or ever use you, so if you’ve ever struggled with insecurity or felt inadequate this message is for you.

I want everyone to understand that God loves you and wants to use you. Eph 2:10 says we are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do the good works he prepared in advance for us. The Greek word “poiema” carries the idea of creation with a designated purpose. God gave you your personality, experiences, and abilities for a reason. You are not an accident; you are God’s masterpiece.

Because of that truth, we must challenge the lies that say, “God can’t use you.” Scripture shows again and again that God uses the unlikely. When Samuel went to anoint Israel’s next king from the House of Jesse, everyone assumed that the eldest son Eliab was the obvious choice. But God reminded Samuel in 1 Sam 16:7 that people look at the outward appearance while the Lord looks at the heart. The overlooked shepherd boy, Jesse’s youngest son David became the one God chose.

God also uses the insecure. Gideon was hiding in fear when God called him a “mighty warrior.” His response revealed how small he saw himself: “My clan is the weakest …and I am the least.” Yet God didn’t promise Gideon success because of his strength, but God said, “I will be with you.” What is impossible on our own becomes possible with God’s presence.

God even uses failures. Peter denied Jesus three times but went on to become the foundation of the early church. Saul persecuted the church, overseeing the execution of many Christians. Yet both were forgiven and powerfully used by God. Like Joshua, who was commanded in Josh 1:9 to be strong and courageous because God was with him, we must choose to trust God rather than our doubts. When discouragement whispers “God can’t use you,” push back, doubt your doubts! Believe God and step forward in faith as the masterpiece he created you to be.

Scriptures— Ephesians 2:10 (NLT), 1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV); Judges 6:15-16 (NIV); Acts 8:1, 3 (NIV); 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 (ESV)

Verses— For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (Ep 2:10) “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Js 1:9)

Questions— What kinds of thoughts or “voices” tend to chip away at your confidence? How do those thoughts affect your relationship with God and others? What does it mean for you to think of yourself as God’s “masterpiece”? Why do you think God often chooses the unlikely instead of the obvious or impressive candidates? How does God’s presence change the way we should think about our limitations or fears? How can remembering God’s grace help us move past our mistakes and step into what God wants to do through us?

Prayer— Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me even when I struggle with doubt and insecurity. Remind me that I am your masterpiece, created with purpose and called to do the good works you prepared for me. Help me to doubt my doubts and trust your truth. Give me courage to step forward in faith, knowing that you are with me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.