Book of Mark: Part Eleven
Destiny Requires Availability: Surrendering to God’s Purpose
How often do we approach a new day, a new opportunity, or a new challenge with the mindset of availability? In a recent message, the profound truth emerged: destiny doesn't demand our abilities as much as our availability. Let’s explore how embracing this concept can bring clarity and purpose to our lives.
The Call to Be Used by God
Have you ever felt unqualified to serve God? Many people hesitate to step into their destiny because they feel they lack the skills or credentials. Yet the story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey (Mark 11:2-9) reminds us that God chooses the unproven and the untested for His glory. The donkey wasn’t a majestic warhorse—it was humble, ordinary, and seemingly unfit for such a significant role. Still, Jesus said, “I want to use that.”
This is a powerful reminder that God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. It’s not about our ability but our availability. Just like the donkey in the story, we are vessels through which God demonstrates His glory.
Surrendering to the Word
A pivotal part of the story is when Jesus sits on the donkey, a symbol of discipleship. The act of surrendering to Christ is a daily decision. As John 1:1 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” When we allow the Word to guide us, it shapes our actions and decisions.
Discipleship means yielding to God’s will, even when it contradicts our own desires. When temptation arises, when life feels overwhelming, the prayer becomes simple: “Jesus, sit on me. Lead me where You want me to go.”
The Power of Telling Your Story
Everyone has a story to share—a testimony of God’s goodness. Whether it’s a recent blessing or a transformative encounter with Christ, sharing your journey can inspire and uplift others. Revelation 12:11 declares, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”
Your story matters. It’s a tool God uses to encourage others and showcase His power. When we speak about God’s faithfulness, we not only strengthen ourselves but also plant seeds of hope in those around us.
Clearing Out Religion: A Call to Authentic Worship
As Jesus entered Jerusalem, He took a bold step by cleansing the temple, overturning tables and confronting corrupt practices (Mark 11:15-17). His declaration was clear: “My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.”
This act challenges us to evaluate our lives and faith communities. Are we fostering environments of genuine worship and connection with God? Or are we weighed down by empty rituals and traditions? Authentic worship stems from a relationship with God, not religious practices.
1 Peter 2:17 warns against being like “wells without water”—offering the promise of refreshment but delivering emptiness. Let us strive to be life-giving sources of faith, pointing others to Jesus, the true source of living water.
Faith That Moves Mountains
Jesus’ teaching in Mark 11:22-24 emphasizes the transformative power of faith. He tells His disciples, “If anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes...it will be done for them.”
Mountains in this context represent the challenges and obstacles in our lives. Faith empowers us to confront those mountains with confidence, knowing that God can move them. However, faith isn’t just about believing with our minds—it’s about a heart posture of trust in God’s promises.
A Life of Prayer
Prayer is more than a spiritual discipline; it’s a lifeline. Ezekiel 22:30 reveals God’s desire for intercessors: “I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap…but I found no one.”
This verse underscores the necessity of prayer. It’s through prayer that we invite God into our circumstances and see His power at work. Yet studies show that the average believer prays for only 1 to 5 minutes a day. How can we expect God to move mightily if we don’t prioritize time with Him?
Walking in Victory
The culmination of faith, prayer, and availability is living in victory. Romans 10:9 affirms, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” The same principle applies to every area of life. Whatever you need—be it healing, provision, or restoration—speak it in faith, trusting God to fulfill His promises.
Living as a Vessel for God
Destiny requires availability, not perfection. Like the donkey, we are vessels for God’s work. By surrendering to His Word, sharing our testimony, fostering authentic worship, and living a life of prayer and faith, we step into the fullness of His purpose for us.
Today, make the decision to say, “Jesus, sit on me. Use me for Your glory.” Remember, it’s not about our qualifications but our willingness to be used by God.
Let this be a reminder to walk in faith, trust God’s promises, and boldly step into the destiny He has for you.
