RADICAL AVAILABILITY
The concept of “Radical Availability” may initially appear to be a complex term, combining the notions of radicalism and accessibility. However, for those who have encountered specific circumstances, the essence of this idea becomes clearer. Consider a scenario where an urgent matter arises, prompting you to reach out via email to a colleague, only to be met with an automated response. This message typically informs you of their unavailability, often detailing a series of alternative contacts for various issues. Such responses can be incredibly frustrating, as they leave you feeling disconnected from the very person who possesses the understanding and expertise necessary to address your concerns. The anxiety of having to explain your situation to someone unfamiliar with the context can be overwhelming, particularly when time is of the essence.
Similarly, the experience of attempting to reach a loved one during a moment of need can evoke a sense of urgency and disappointment. For those in committed relationships, the frustration of not being able to connect with a partner when it matters most is a relatable scenario. Whether the phone is misplaced, silenced, or simply ignored, the feeling of isolation can intensify when you are seeking emotional support or guidance. In critical moments, when clarity and direction are paramount, the inability to communicate can exacerbate the situation. Instead of receiving the comfort and assistance you require, you are met with a voicemail message that reiterates their unavailability, leaving you to navigate your challenges alone. This lack of immediate access to those who can provide support underscores the importance of fostering a culture of availability, where individuals are encouraged to be present and responsive, particularly in times of need.
When one is informed that a particular individual is genuinely unavailable, it often evokes memories of the biblical narrative involving Elijah and the prophets of Baal. In that account, Elijah mockingly suggested that perhaps their deity was preoccupied, humorously proposing that their god might be on a break, attending to personal matters, or simply enjoying a holiday. This scenario resonates deeply with the frustration experienced when one desperately seeks the presence or assistance of another, only to find them absent. Such moments can be profoundly disheartening, as the yearning for connection and support is met with silence or unavailability.
However, it is essential to reflect on our own actions and attitudes towards divine communication. Many individuals inadvertently place God in a similar predicament, where His calls for engagement seem to go unanswered. He reaches out, seeking those willing to respond to His call, yet often His inquiries are met with an internal message of unavailability, as individuals grapple with various life challenges such as health crises, financial difficulties, or personal struggles. This self-imposed distance can create a perception of divine impotence, leading to the belief that God may be unable to intervene in their lives. In contrast, the example set forth in Isaiah chapter six illustrates a different response; when the Lord asked, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah readily replied, “Here I am, send me,” demonstrating a willingness to engage and respond to divine calling, which serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being available to God amidst our own challenges.
It is understandable that some may feel a sense of fatigue regarding the ongoing discussion of Isaiah Chapter 6, yet I must emphasize that our focus remains firmly on this text for the time being. The message contained within this chapter is of paramount importance, particularly as we consider the radical availability that God is calling upon each of us to embody. In light of the challenges and upheavals that have arisen since the onset of the pandemic, I pose a reflective question: how has your prayer life evolved during this period? Many individuals have resorted to prayers centered around personal blessings and requests for divine intervention in their circumstances, seeking immediate relief or change. However, it is crucial to recognize that God also desires a deeper level of communication and engagement from us, one that transcends mere requests for assistance.
The absence of this profound connection can lead to a sense of frustration, akin to the experience of longing for the presence of a loved one who is unavailable during times of need. In our human experience, we often find ourselves yearning for simple gestures of support, such as a smile or a comforting embrace, which can be profoundly impactful in moments of distress. This longing reflects a broader truth: there are significant tasks and purposes that God wishes to fulfill in our world today. If we continue to approach prayer solely from a self-centered perspective, we risk delaying the fulfillment of these divine intentions. Therefore, I encourage you to contemplate the nature of your prayers during this season and to consider how you might align your communication with God to reflect a willingness to engage in His greater plans for our world.
The phrase “send me” serves as a profound invocation to the divine, representing a radical and potentially perilous prayer that expresses a willingness to be utilized by God. This declaration, “Lord, use me,” encapsulates a deep yearning for divine purpose and direction. In contrast, many individuals may find themselves praying for material needs, such as a new vehicle or employment, believing that the most potent prayers arise from binding evil forces or reciting scripture. However, the essence of powerful prayer often lies in its simplicity. For instance, the prayer of Isaiah, “Here I am, send me,” exemplifies a straightforward yet impactful plea that invites divine engagement and action.
In the coming weeks, I will delve into the significance of the phrase “send me” and explore various simple yet powerful prayers found in scripture. When one prays, “Lord, speak to me,” it signifies a radical openness to divine communication, indicating a readiness to receive guidance. Similarly, the request to be filled with the Holy Spirit carries profound implications, as such a filling can ignite a transformative fire within an individual. This empowerment is evident in the boldness exhibited by the apostles in Acts chapter 4, where they sought courage to proclaim the name of Jesus despite opposition. Their unwavering commitment, fueled by the Holy Spirit, led them to continue their mission, demonstrating that true strength in prayer often emerges from a willingness to be used for a greater purpose.
In this season of prayer, engaging in a specific type of supplication can lead one to encounter significant challenges that are ultimately beneficial.
God is actively seeking individuals who are willing to embrace these challenges for His sake, and it is hoped that you will be among those who take bold steps to please Him, even if such actions may provoke opposition from the forces of darkness. It is essential to recognize that God does not require perfection in His followers; rather, He desires those who are willing and available to serve Him. The call is for individuals who are ready to step forward and make a difference, embodying the spirit of a true servant.
Furthermore, the Scriptures emphasize the importance of being a living sacrifice, one that is holy and acceptable to God, as articulated in Romans 12:1-2. This passage urges believers to present themselves in a manner that reflects their commitment to divine service, which is deemed a reasonable expectation. By doing so, they can transform their minds and resist the pressures of the world around them, aligning their will with God’s purpose. The essence of this commitment is encapsulated in the prayer of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He submitted to the will of the Father, stating, “Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done.” This model of prayer and dedication serves as a guiding principle for those who aspire to be effective vessels for God’s work in the world.
In this season, many individuals find themselves engaged in a form of prayer that prioritizes personal desires over divine intentions, often expressing sentiments akin to “not your will, but mine be done.” This approach reflects a tendency to approach God with a list of personal requests, focusing solely on individual wants rather than seeking alignment with His will. Such prayers, while earnest, can inadvertently convey a message that disregards God’s own plans and purposes. It is essential to recognize that God, in His wisdom, may have a different path in mind, one that aligns with His greater design for our lives. The call for a transformative prayer of consecration is crucial; a plea for God to soften our hearts and redirect our desires towards His divine will.
Moreover, the act of prayer should not merely be about seeking immediate solutions, such as a new job or a future partner, without first ensuring that one is on the right path to fulfilling their God-given destiny. Engaging in radical availability to God allows for a convergence of our desires with His will, facilitating a movement towards the fullness of what He has planned for us. In this season of divine recalibration, it is vital to remain open and receptive to God’s guidance, ensuring that we do not miss the opportunities He presents for our lives. The narrative found in Luke chapter 9, particularly the account of Jesus feeding the 5,000, serves as a poignant reminder of the processes involved in divine provision and the importance of being attentive to God’s instructions in our journey.
In the narrative found in Luke chapter 9, beginning at verse 11, the scripture recounts how a large crowd discovered the location of Jesus and chose to follow Him. In response to their presence, He graciously welcomed them and took the opportunity to impart teachings about the kingdom of God, while also performing healings for those afflicted with illness. As the day progressed, the twelve disciples approached Jesus with a concern regarding the crowd’s needs, suggesting that He send them away to nearby villages and farms to secure food and lodging, as they were situated in a desolate area with no provisions. However, Jesus challenged them by instructing, “You feed them,” prompting a realization among the disciples that they felt ill-equipped to meet such a demand, as they possessed only five loaves of bread and two fish.
This exchange highlights a common human tendency to underestimate one’s potential and resources when faced with overwhelming circumstances. Many individuals may hesitate to respond to calls for assistance, believing they lack the means to contribute meaningfully, particularly when they anticipate requests for financial help or other forms of support. This mindset can lead to a sense of inadequacy, causing one to withdraw from opportunities to serve or engage. Nevertheless, it is essential to recognize that God operates differently; He seeks radical availability from us, regardless of our perceived limitations. The truth remains that God has a purpose for each individual, and despite our feelings of insufficiency, He invites us to be present and willing, as He is fully aware of our capabilities and desires to utilize us in ways we may not yet comprehend.
There remains a desire to engage with you, as some individuals may express a longing to return to activities that once brought them joy, such as participating in a choir, working with children, or even parking cars. However, in the current climate, many find themselves at a standstill, lacking the resources and opportunities they once had. Yet, there is a divine invitation to look beyond the immediate circumstances. God encourages us to unite, much like Jesus did with His disciples, emphasizing the importance of community and collective purpose. This moment of stillness may serve as a reminder to reflect on past aspirations and consider how we can contribute to God’s work during this period of quietude.
Recently, I delved into the concept of reclaiming one’s calling, recognizing that it is common for individuals to lose sight of their purpose and passion over time. In moments of isolation, such as working from home or spending extended periods with family, one may forget the vibrancy of communal experiences and the joy of being among others. The disciples, when faced with the challenge of feeding a multitude, initially felt overwhelmed by their limited resources, questioning how they could possibly meet such a need. Yet, Jesus urged them to take action, reminding us that even in times of scarcity, we are called to step forward and serve, drawing on the strength and guidance that comes from being in His presence.
It is evident that the situation at hand is not ideal, as we lack the necessary resources to address it effectively. In the biblical account, specifically in verse 14, it is noted that there were five thousand men present, prompting Jesus to instruct His disciples to organize the crowd into groups of fifty. This initial step was crucial in managing the multitude. Verse 15 recounts that the people complied and sat down. Subsequently, in verse 16, Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up to heaven, and blessed the food. He then broke the loaves into pieces and distributed them through His disciples, who shared the provisions with the gathered crowd. This act of blessing and breaking what little He had ultimately led to a miraculous outcome, illustrating the profound impact of faith and divine provision.
In contemporary times, the prevalence of brokenness in our world serves as a reminder that God often uses such circumstances to facilitate transformation and growth. This brokenness signifies a divine intention to redirect our focus beyond our immediate concerns. When God permits us to experience brokenness, it is an indication that He is preparing to convert our struggles into a powerful testimony. This process can elevate us to new heights, allowing us to become vessels of grace, having firsthand knowledge of its significance in times of hardship. It is essential to recognize that there is a greater purpose for each individual, and God has a higher calling for our lives. As articulated in Philippians 3:13-15, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining a forward-looking mindset, urging believers to forget past failures and strive toward the heavenly prize that God offers through Christ Jesus. This aspiration fosters a readiness to embrace the more that God has in store for us.
God desires for us to delve deeper into our relationship with Him, urging us to fully surrender ourselves into His care. This radical availability to seek greater aspirations is essential for us to truly embrace our purpose. Walking in purpose is not a static endeavor; it is a dynamic journey that requires continuous effort and a forward-looking mindset. To connect with our divine purpose, we must cultivate a mature perspective that encourages us to reach beyond our current limitations. In this season, God is calling for a different kind of response from us, one that reflects a readiness to engage rather than retreat.
In moments when we may have stepped back from our calling or passion, the automatic response we present to God and others may signal unavailability. However, the response that God seeks is one that unequivocally affirms our commitment, saying, “My answer is yes.” This proactive stance indicates a readiness to act, regardless of the specifics of the request. It is possible to establish a spiritual auto-responder that conveys our unwavering willingness to serve, demonstrating that we are so aligned with God’s will that our answer precedes the question. The challenge lies in positioning ourselves in such a way that God can depend on us to respond affirmatively, embodying the spirit of, “Lord, speak; Your servant is listening.”
The reason we express our devotion through the song “I say yes, Lord” is to affirm our commitment to God’s will and guidance in our lives. The lyrics reflect a deep-seated agreement with the divine direction we receive, emphasizing that when the Spirit communicates with us, we should respond wholeheartedly with a resounding “yes.” It is essential to reflect on what God may be conveying to us during this season of our lives and to consider whether our response aligns with that divine message. For some, like those who may be struggling in their marriages, the inclination might be to react negatively to current challenges rather than seeking a path that preserves the relationship. This tendency to prioritize immediate emotional responses over long-term well-being can lead to detrimental outcomes, both personally and professionally.
In navigating life’s challenges, it is crucial to cultivate an attitude of acceptance and willingness to follow God’s plan, which is ultimately the best course for our lives. This involves recognizing the importance of maintaining composure in the face of adversity, rather than succumbing to impulsive reactions that may jeopardize our future. By adopting a mindset that consistently affirms God’s will, we can position ourselves to receive His guidance more effectively. This commitment to being a living sacrifice, as articulated in Romans 12:1, underscores the importance of surrendering our desires and ambitions to God’s purpose. Embracing this sacrificial attitude allows us to align our actions with divine intentions, ensuring that we remain in the blessed and optimal place that God has prepared for us at any given moment.
The service that God expects from us encompasses three distinct callings in the life of every believer. The first is the calling to salvation, which invites all individuals to embrace a relationship with God. Following this, there is the calling to sanctification, which signifies a divine invitation to be set apart for God’s purposes. The third calling is that of service, emphasizing that sanctification is not merely an end in itself but rather a means to fulfill a greater purpose. To illustrate this, one might consider the act of purchasing a special garment intended for a significant occasion, such as Christmas or a graduation. This garment is deliberately set apart for a specific purpose, much like how each believer is called to be sanctified and prepared for service in God’s kingdom.
In this season, I pray that everyone present may have their eyes and minds opened to their unique calling in sanctification. It is essential to recognize that each individual has been created for a specific purpose, and being set apart is integral to fulfilling that divine calling. Therefore, it is crucial to embrace a life of consecration, obedience, and sanctification. This commitment requires a willingness to step outside of one’s comfort zone, as true sanctification involves leaving behind certain aspects of life to fully embrace the calling that God has placed upon us. In doing so, we align ourselves with the divine purpose for which we were created, ultimately leading us to a life of meaningful service.
Stepping outside of one’s comfort zone into a realm of radical availability can profoundly transform one’s life.
This concept of radical availability has the potential to significantly alter one’s perspective and experiences. I can recount numerous instances where I have witnessed divine intervention guiding me through various phases of my life, particularly during moments of radical availability. From an early age, I became accustomed to responding to divine prompts, where I would receive clear instructions on what actions to take. A pivotal moment occurred during my high school years when I committed my life to Christ. During that Easter season, my school fellowship organized an event that required contributions from students. At that time, my financial resources were limited, with only a small amount of fifty naira to my name. Despite the seemingly insignificant amount, I felt compelled to donate everything I had, an act that, at the time, appeared irrational but has since revealed its deeper significance.
The act of giving is not merely about fulfilling a need; rather, it serves as a means for God to purify and consecrate our hearts. The principle that where our treasure lies, our hearts will follow, underscores the importance of this practice. By encouraging us to give—whether it be our time, resources, or ourselves—God seeks to sanctify our hearts and draw us closer to His purpose. In my case, I was unaware that this act of giving was a step towards being set apart for ministry. The fellowship I had just joined emphasized the importance of participation, urging students to contribute whatever they could. In that moment, I instinctively offered all that I had left, a decision that was not influenced by external pressures but rather an internal conviction. This act of radical availability opened doors for me to engage more fully during the Easter program, illustrating how such moments of surrender can lead to greater opportunities for service and growth in faith.
In this season, I firmly believe that God is working in the hearts of many individuals to inspire them to win souls and attract more students to His blessings. This divine calling encourages a willingness to step outside of one’s comfort zone, which in turn leads to a deeper experience of the Holy Spirit’s presence. As one embraces this challenge, a remarkable transformation occurs; individuals become bolder and more fearless in their pursuits. It is essential to reflect on the impact of this boldness in your life. On a scale from one to ten, how much do you think others are impressed by your courage during this time? Are there individuals who recognize and admire your audacity?
The account in Acts chapter 4 illustrates the profound effect of boldness in the face of opposition. When Peter and John were commanded to cease preaching in the name of Jesus, they turned to prayer, seeking the strength to proclaim their faith with courage. Their commitment to God’s purpose was unwavering, as they were willing to risk their lives for the mission they embraced. The scripture notes that those who observed them recognized their lack of formal education, yet they were astonished by their confidence. This juxtaposition highlights the transformative power of divine boldness, which emerges when one dedicates their life to God’s service. Engaging in fervent prayer for boldness, as the disciples did, can lead to significant spiritual breakthroughs, enabling one to navigate challenges and create positive change in the world. Such prayers are indeed powerful, as they invite God to instill a courageous spirit that can lead to impactful outcomes.
In this season, I earnestly hope that someone will hear my plea today, as I seek divine intervention in the form of a transformative prayer. It is my desire that individuals will be inspired to utter prayers that resonate deeply, such as, “Lord, send me,” “Lord, speak to me,” and “Lord, break my heart for what breaks Yours.” Furthermore, I implore for a filling of the Holy Spirit, as this is the essence of the prayers that God anticipates from us during this time. I express my gratitude to Jesus, sensing in my spirit that a new season is dawning for someone who is yearning to reclaim their calling and reignite their passion. Grace is being bestowed upon you today as you prepare yourself for a radical commitment to your divine purpose.
As we reflect on our availability to God and our destinies, it is crucial to consider whether the current state of the world has led us into a place of retreat, where we may have lost sight of our calling and purpose. The excitement that should accompany our prayers, particularly the prayer of availability, is akin to the thrill a novice actor would feel upon receiving a call from a renowned director like Tyler Perry, offering them a role in a major film. This analogy illustrates the profound joy and anticipation that should accompany our willingness to be used by God. The Creator of the universe has crafted a unique script for each of us, and He is inviting us to step into our roles with enthusiasm and commitment, reminding us that we are integral to His grand design.
Will you take a stand today and declare, “Lord, I am here, and I am ready for Your purpose”? As you engage in this prayer, God will begin to unveil His plans for you. You may feel unprepared or doubt your abilities, yet it is through this act of prayer that transformation occurs. The disciples were initially unaware of their potential, but when they offered what little they had, Jesus took it, blessed it, broke it, and then distributed it for a greater purpose. Many individuals may find themselves in a season of being broken, but this is often a precursor to being used for the fulfillment of one’s destiny. Now is not the moment to retreat; instead, will you raise both hands in surrender today? We will sing a song that embodies this prayer, and as the melody fills the air, I encourage you to pray earnestly, affirming, “Lord, I am available, and I desire to be used by You.”