UNPACK This...Christ-Centered ConfidenceSample

Who Is This Guy? When Mac McClung entered the 2023 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, he was listed as 6’ 2” and didn’t look like a typical elite dunker. Honestly, I wasn’t giving him a chance to win based on his youthful appearance. But sure enough, McClung put on an incredible show on his way to winning the Slam Dunk Contest. This unassuming player went out there and remarkably won the same contest that Michael Jordan, Dr. J, and Kobe Bryant once did. This is an excellent reminder that none of us have to be a well-known “All-Star” with amazing gifts to do something extraordinary. When it comes to being used by God, we sometimes tell ourselves that we aren’t gifted enough for Him to use us in significant ways. We’d rather sit back and watch others serve Him because we feel we aren’t qualified. The truth is, however, that God uses humble people whose hearts are devoted to Him. He’s looking for those who are surrendered, open, and filled with faith. If we willingly and confidently serve Him, He will equip us with whatever we need. It may not always be glamorous, but we’re doing it because of our love for God – not for attention or accolades. The story of David is a good example of God using an unassuming person to accomplish something great. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” Let’s always remember that God provides the strength necessary to do His work. We just need to give Him our hearts and decide to stop making excuses. Today, let’s not worry about being an “All-Star.” Rather, let’s choose to be servants of the Lord with hearts fully and confidently committed to Him. I’m Bryce Johnson, and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know I am weak, but I believe You can use me because of Your power. I pray my heart would be wholly surrendered and my humble spirit would allow You to move through me. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.