God’s Use of Imperfect Lives: Moses’ Crooked Stick Metaphor

God’s purposes are not hindered by human imperfections or mistakes. Even when lives or circumstances appear flawed, broken, or misaligned—like a crooked stick—God can still use them to fulfill His divine plan. This truth is vividly illustrated by the metaphor of a crooked stick, which demonstrates that God can achieve His perfect aim despite the imperfections of the instrument.

Human lives are often marked by errors, regrets, and miscalculations. Moses’ life exemplifies this reality. Although chosen by God, Moses made significant mistakes, including the impulsive act of killing an Egyptian, which forced him to flee ([00:38]). These flaws did not disqualify him from God’s purpose. Instead, God worked through Moses’ imperfect beginnings, using his life to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This shows that God’s power is not limited by human weakness; rather, He can guide even a crooked stick to hit the bull’s-eye.

The story of Moses highlights that divine calling does not require perfection. Moments of weakness and error do not thwart God’s plan. On the contrary, God can transform flawed lives into instruments of His will. This principle extends beyond biblical figures to all believers. Past mistakes, regrets, or imperfections do not exclude anyone from being used by God. When individuals surrender their lives to Him, God’s grace enables their flaws to serve His perfect purpose.

Believers are encouraged to come honestly before God, trusting that He can turn the misery of the past into the miracle of the future ([01:12]). The metaphor of the crooked stick offers hope and reassurance that no life is too broken or too flawed to be used by God. Every life, regardless of its imperfections, holds value and potential in God’s hands.

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from Tony Evans, one of 60 churches in Boulder, CO