The God of the Second Chance

Did you ever feel like you made too many mistakes and the Lord can never really use you effectively again? I have good news for you. Our God is the God of the second chance. Look at Jonah. After running from God and being swallowed by a great fish, the Bible states, Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time (Jonah 3:1). God gave him a second chance. And he is doing the same for you.

Now is the time to place all of your trust in Him. We must be convinced that if God doesn’t show up, it’s all over. But He will show up! God has a “track record” of using those who feel like they cannot do the job. Remember, man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). When our heart is at the right place—in complete submission to Him—it is amazing what the Lord can do to prepare and equip us for the responsibilities that lie ahead, regardless of our past track record or feelings of insecurity.

When Jeremiah was a young man he told the Lord; “Ah, Sovereign Lord…I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.” But the Lord said to Jeremiah; “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you.” (Jere. 1:6-8)

A feeling of “I can’t do it” is a common thread that runs through the life of nearly every individual who has been called by the Lord to serve in any type of leadership or ministry. But this is the type of person the Lord will use—those who are completely dependent on Him. No matter what your task is in life, the Lord promises to be with you and help you. He is the God of the second chance.