Basic TrainingBible MinistriesGene CunninghamBasic Training Bible Ministries KBKnowledge Base

What does the Bible teach about availability in the Christian life?

Availability is the voluntary decision to be used by God, as the issue in the Christian life is never our ability but our availability. We cannot prepare or sanctify ourselves; we can only choose to be available to God and humble ourselves through the simple confession of our sins. To be sanctified, useful, and prepared for God, we need only to be available. This availability involves presenting our physical bodies as a living sacrifice or offering (Romans 6:13), making them an instrument that God can use to accomplish His plan. As believers, we have the right to utilize the provisions of God's grace or to squander them, and what He asks is simply that we present ourselves and make ourselves available to Him. Biblical examples of availability include Moses, who accepted self-denial and hardship (Num. 12:3; Heb. 11:25–26), Elijah, who obeyed instructions without argument (1 Kings 17:2–3, 8–9), David, who stepped forward to fight Goliath (1 Sam. 16:13; 17:37, 45–47), and others like Isaiah, Esther, Mary, and Paul, who all demonstrated a willingness to be used by God. The goal is for every believer to be in full-time, 24-hour-a-day, Christian service, presenting their bodies as a living sacrifice unto the Lord.

Also asked: What does the Bible say about being available to God and how do believers show availability in their lives? · What is the difference between ability and availability in the Christian life and how do believers become sanctified and useful to God?
Also asked, more loosely
How can Christians demonstrate their willingness to be used by God and what does it mean to present themselves as a living sacrifice?

Source: The Basics The Basics — Availability (canonical doctrine) · Read this lesson in the book →

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Lesson 2–4: The Equipment—Spiritual Gifts

Lesson 3–1: The Race—The Christian Life

Lesson 3–5: The Goal—Spiritual Maturity

Lesson 2–5: The Supply Line—Prayer

Lesson 3–2: The Danger—Spiritual Retreat/Reversion

Lesson 3–4: The Climb—Spiritual Growth

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