By Linda A. Ratcliff, Th.D., Ed.D.
Edited by Grace Marie Ziegler, B.Th.
"But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise;
God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."
1 Corinthians 1:27
Throughout history, God has shown a remarkable pattern. He hasn’t looked for perfect resumes or polished credentials when giving someone an assignment. Instead, He calls ordinary people who might be flawed, overlooked, or sometimes even fearful to carry out extraordinary assignments for His glory. While the world often seeks charisma, credentials, and clout, God looks for something far simpler and far more powerful: a willing heart.
Over the years, I have seen how God raises up ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes. You don’t need a platform, a title, or an impressive résumé. Some of the most influential leaders in God’s story began with nothing more than a simple, quiet “yes.” Their willingness, not their qualifications, was the foundation for a life of lasting impact.
In this course, we’ll begin with the journey of Gerald Easterly, a man I knew personally who was called to a unique ministry of intercessory prayer. His quiet but strategic approach to prayer not only impacted entire communities, but also deeply influenced my own perspective on God’s call to ministry, especially in the years following my time as a restaurant owner.
To become God’s servant, it isn’t necessary to be famous or wealthy. You aren’t required to be fearless. You just need to be faithful. Because when God calls, it’s never really about what we can bring to the table. It’s about what He can do through a willing heart.
You may never feel fully “qualified” and that’s okay. God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. Your willingness to listen, learn, and follow His direction will be the beginning of a journey that could shape another individual or their entire famiiy, communities, and even nations.
Get ready to step into God's calling - not by chasing fame or fortune, but simply by answering His call.
PDF: TEXT & WORKBOOK
PDF: Song "Ordinary People" by Linda Ratcliff
| CHAPTER 1: | The Jericho Marcher |
| CHAPTER 2: | Outnumbered but Not Overcome |
| CHAPTER 3: | The Inner Circle |
| CHAPTER 4: | The Scarlet Cord |
| CHAPTER 5: | She Said "Yes!" |
| CHAPTER 6: | Chosen with Purpose |
| CHAPTER 7: | No Season Wasted |
| CHAPTER 8: | Before the First Raindrop |
| CHAPTER 9: | No Act of Service is Too Small |
| CHAPTER 10: | When Obedience Means Resistance |
| CHAPTER 11: | Ministry in the Marketplace |
| CHAPTER 12: | A Trusted Companion & Co-Worker |
| CHAPTER 13: | Courage in the King's Court |
| CHAPTER 14: | More Than Enough |
| CHAPTER 15: | The Faithful Scribe |
| CHAPTER 16: | Empty Jars and Open Doors |
| CHAPTER 17: | An Ordinary Woman with Extraordinary Influence |
| CHAPTER 18: | The Power of a Simple Welcome |
| CHAPTER 19: | The Trickle-Down Effect |
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