Most of us have had a clumsy moment that messed up our plans big time.

But Danny Gokey? He broke his nose in a pick-up basketball game… in the middle of a Christmas tour.

A shoulder to the nose resulted in a face swollen, doctors giving instructions no one wants to hear when they’re about to hit the road. And instead of canceling or pushing back dates, Danny decided to keep going.

@dannygokey

♬ original sound – dannygokey

Touring is exhausting on a normal day—long drives, late nights, rehearsals, soundchecks, meeting people, giving your all on stage. But doing all of that while recovering from an injury? That takes commitment.

And honestly, his response inspired me a lot. This wild detour became a reminder that ministry doesn’t wait for perfect timing, perfect health, or perfect conditions.

Because most of us have been there—showing up to work, church, family, or life in general when we’re tired, stressed, hurting, or not feeling like the best version of ourselves.

Following Jesus doesn’t make us superhuman.
But it does give us strength when we’re stretched thin.

The Bible is full of people God used long before they felt “ready.” Moses had doubts. Elijah was exhausted (he just needed a nap and a snack.) Paul had a literal “thorn in his flesh.” Peter messed up more times than he’d ever admit on record. Yet God still called them, equipped them, and worked through them.

God Doesn’t Need Perfect—Just Present

If Danny’s broken nose teaches us anything, it’s this: God doesn’t wait for us to be at 100% before He works through us.

You don’t have to have the perfect mindset to encourage someone.
You don’t have to have the perfect faith to pray.
You don’t have to have the perfect story to make a difference.
You don’t have to feel strong to be used by the One who is strong.

Our limitations and flaws become places where His grace shows up the loudest. Maybe you’re not battling a broken nose, but you might be dealing with: emotional exhaustion, spiritual dryness, disappointment, anxiety, grief, confusion about the next step

If that’s you, hear this:
God can still use you. Exactly as you are. Today. Not when everything gets better. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply show up and trust that God will fill in the gaps.

Because He will.

The Secret Danny Gokey Kept for 30 Years