God doesn’t use perfect people

Lessons from the Life of Peter

Leadership is often associated with intelligence, skill, and perfection. The world seeks leaders who are polished, strategic, and flawless. But in God’s kingdom, leadership looks different. The Bible is filled with stories of people who were far from perfect but were chosen by God to accomplish great things. One of the most powerful examples is Peter, the disciple who repeatedly failed, doubted, and made mistakes—yet became the foundation of the early church.

In a powerful talk on leading God’s way, pastor Joshua McCauley highlights key biblical principles on faith, leadership, and ministry. This article explores the essential takeaways from the message and how they apply to us today.

1. God Doesn’t Use Perfect People

One of the most reassuring truths in Scripture is that God does not look for perfection. He uses people as they are, with all their flaws, failures, and weaknesses. Pastor Joshua McCauley: “God doesn’t use perfect people—He only uses imperfect people, because that’s the only kind that exists.”

Consider Peter:

• He doubted Jesus even after seeing miracles.
• He denied Jesus three times.
• He often spoke before thinking.

Yet, Jesus still said, “On this rock, I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). If Jesus could trust Peter with His church, imagine what He can do through us!

💡 Lesson: Stop waiting until you “have it all together” to step into your calling. God wants to use you as you are, right now.

2. Faith Must Be Spoken into Existence

A crucial aspect of leadership is declaring what you believe—even when it doesn’t seem possible. McCauley emphasizes that if we speak small, we will remain small.

When he started his church, he boldly declared, “One day, we will have 50,000 people.” At the time, there were only 30-40 people in attendance. But faith is about speaking what is unseen and trusting God for the results.

Peter also demonstrated this when he stepped out of the boat to walk on water. He failed, yes—but at least he tried. The same applies to our lives. If we don’t believe in the vision God has given us, how can we expect others to?

💡 Lesson: Your words have power. Speak faith, not fear. Declare God’s promises over your life, your ministry, and your future.

3. Leadership is Not About Having All the Answers

Many people hesitate to lead because they feel unqualified. But Jesus never called leaders to have all the answers—He called them to trust and obey.

Even after Jesus’ resurrection, some of His own disciples still doubted Him (Matthew 28:17). If Jesus, after performing countless miracles, still had doubters among His followers, why do we expect everyone to believe in us immediately?

Peter was a prime example of this. He misunderstood Jesus, argued with Him, and even tried to correct Him. But instead of giving up on Peter, Jesus continued to speak life into him and use him for His purpose.

💡 Lesson: Leadership is not about perfection—it’s about obedience and trust. Step out in faith, even if you don’t have all the answers.

4. Action Over Knowledge

Many people assume they need extensive theological knowledge before they can effectively serve God. But in reality, God is looking for doers, not just thinkers.

Peter wasn’t the most knowledgeable or qualified. But he was always the first to act:
✔️ The first to step out of the boat.
✔️ The first to proclaim Jesus as the Messiah.
✔️ The first to preach the gospel after Pentecost.

Meanwhile, many others with more knowledge and religious training did nothing.

💡 Lesson: God values action more than mere knowledge. Instead of waiting until you “know enough,” start moving forward in faith.

5. The Mission is Bigger Than You

It’s easy to get caught up in personal struggles, doubts, and insecurities. But God’s mission is bigger than any one person. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) commands believers to go and make disciples of all nations.

Pastor Joshua shares a story about a shoe company that sent a salesman to Africa. The first salesman returned and said, “No one wears shoes here. There’s no market.” But a second salesman saw the same situation and said, “No one wears shoes here. This is the biggest opportunity ever!”

Our perspective changes everything. Instead of focusing on challenges, focus on the opportunity to bring people to Christ.

💡 Lesson: The gospel is urgent. Don’t wait for the “perfect moment”—start reaching people now.

Final Thoughts: Be Like Peter—Just Go for It!

Peter was far from perfect, but he was willing. And willingness is what God looks for. He didn’t wait until he had all the answers or overcame all his flaws—he simply followed Jesus and allowed Him to work through him.

If you feel unqualified, remember:

• God called Peter, despite his doubts.
• Jesus restored Peter, despite his failures.
• The Holy Spirit empowered Peter, despite his weaknesses.

And if God did it for Peter, He can do it for you.

👉 Stop waiting. Start moving. God wants to use you now!