God is looking for people to use, and if you can get usable, he will wear you out. The most dangerous prayer you can pray is this: 'Use me.'

Rick Warren's quote, "God is looking for people to use, and if you can get usable, he will wear you out. The most dangerous prayer you can pray is this: 'Use me,'" emphasizes the idea that God seeks individuals who are willing and able to serve His purposes. The key concept here is being usable, meaning that a person must be open, flexible, and ready to act according to God’s will. In this sense, God’s intention is not to force people into service but to find those who are willing to be shaped and molded for His work.

The quote also speaks to the potential costs of being truly available for God’s service. When a person becomes usable, God will utilize their talents, time, and energy for His greater purpose, often leading them to exhaustion because they are continually working toward a higher calling. The idea of God "wearing you out" highlights the intensity and demands of this spiritual commitment, but it is framed as a noble sacrifice, where the fulfillment and impact of the work outweigh the fatigue.

Warren also describes the act of praying, "Use me," as the most dangerous prayer one can make. This is because it is a prayer of complete surrender and commitment to God’s will, often leading to challenges, discomfort, and growth. The term dangerous suggests that such a prayer can lead a person down unexpected paths, where they might encounter trials that push them beyond their limits, but ultimately, it is a prayer that allows for divine transformation and purpose.

The origin of this quote lies in Rick Warren’s teachings on purpose-driven living, which emphasize that every person has a unique calling to fulfill in God’s plan. In his book, The Purpose Driven Life, Warren discusses how God wants to use individuals to make a difference in the world, and this quote encapsulates his message about being ready for the challenge and sacrifice that come with fulfilling one's divine purpose.