Definition and Concept

Openness to divine appointments refers to the readiness and willingness of individuals to recognize and respond to opportunities orchestrated by God for His purposes. These appointments are often unexpected encounters or situations where God uses individuals to fulfill His will, share His message, or provide guidance and support to others. This concept emphasizes the importance of being attuned to the Holy Spirit's leading and being prepared to act in faith and obedience.

Biblical Examples

1. Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40): One of the clearest examples of a divine appointment is found in the account of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. An angel of the Lord instructed Philip to go to the desert road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza. There, he encountered an Ethiopian official reading the book of Isaiah. Philip, prompted by the Spirit, approached the chariot and explained the Scriptures, leading to the eunuch's conversion and baptism. This account illustrates the importance of being sensitive to God's guidance and ready to act when He orchestrates such encounters.

2. Ananias and Saul (Acts 9:10-19): Ananias was a disciple in Damascus who received a vision from the Lord instructing him to visit Saul (later Paul), who had been blinded on the road to Damascus. Despite his initial hesitation due to Saul's reputation, Ananias obeyed God's command. He laid hands on Saul, restoring his sight and baptizing him. This divine appointment was crucial in the transformation of Saul into Paul, a pivotal figure in the spread of Christianity.

3. Jesus and the Samaritan Woman (John 4:1-42): Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well is another example of a divine appointment. Despite cultural norms that discouraged such interactions, Jesus engaged the woman in conversation, revealing His identity as the Messiah. This meeting not only transformed the woman's life but also led to many in her town believing in Jesus. This account highlights the importance of breaking through societal barriers to fulfill God's purposes.

Theological Implications

Openness to divine appointments requires a heart attuned to God's voice and a willingness to step out in faith. It involves recognizing that God is actively working in the world and that He invites believers to participate in His redemptive plan. This openness is rooted in a deep trust in God's sovereignty and a commitment to living a life led by the Holy Spirit.

Practical Application

1. Prayer and Discernment: Believers are encouraged to cultivate a prayerful life, seeking God's guidance and asking for discernment to recognize divine appointments. James 1:5 states, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."

2. Flexibility and Availability: Being open to divine appointments often requires flexibility and a willingness to adjust one's plans. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, "A man's heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps."

3. Obedience and Faith: Responding to divine appointments necessitates obedience and faith, trusting that God will provide the necessary words and actions. Hebrews 11:8 speaks of Abraham's faith: "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, without knowing where he was going."

Challenges and Encouragement

While openness to divine appointments can be challenging due to fear, doubt, or inconvenience, believers are encouraged to remember that God equips those He calls. Philippians 4:13 assures, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." By remaining open and responsive to God's leading, believers can experience the joy and fulfillment of being used by God to impact the world for His glory.