God sees us through the lens of our potential, not our present reality, as demonstrated in Gideon's story. Despite feeling inadequate, Gideon possessed four qualities that made him usable in God's hands: humility, diligence, concern for others, and refusal to compromise with the enemy. God's promise to Gideon wasn't based on his strength but on divine presence: 'Surely I will be with you.' Many Christians never reach their potential because fear, doubt, pride, or past hurts have limited their spiritual growth. The key isn't whether we're strong enough, but whether we'll be humble enough, diligent enough, and caring enough for God to use.