“Then the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and it said to Balaam, “What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?” Numbers 22:28
When I considered pursuing full-time ministry, I asked a good friend if he thought God could use me in ministry. He turned to Numbers 22 and shared the story of how God prevented Balaam from cursing the people of Israel. God opened the mouth of his donkey, who then spoke to warn Balaam. As my friend read the story, I wondered out loud, “What does this story have to do with me?” His quick response: “If God can speak through a donkey, He can speak through you.”
I took great encouragement from my friend’s use of humor to communicate a profound point. God did not need my ability; He wanted my availability. If I was available, He could make me able for his purposes!
Consider some of the characters in the biblical record: Moses reluctantly responded to God’s call, but God transformed him to preserve and deliver His people. The formula for Christ’s disciples was “follow me and I will make you fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). That troupe of unlikely recruits was changed forever by making themselves fully available to Jesus.
What does availability look like? Think of a servant. When a servant wakes up, his or her main concern is the wishes of the master. Think of someone in love. Not many moments go by without thoughts of the one they love. Any request becomes a priority. The loved one’s desires are anticipated and fulfilled. Availability to God is a beautiful blend of a love and servanthood.
Dear Father, today I give You may plans, desires, and time. I desire to be available to You each moment. I long to be used by You to accomplish Your purposes. Speak through me to communicate Your love to those around me. May my ears be attentive to Your voice in the noise of my day. Amen.
By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission
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