God Can Use Anything to Bring a Shift
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: January 15, 2025
Scripture: “Then Moses cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became fit to drink.” – Exodus 15:25 (NIV)
Devotional Thoughts
In yesterday's devotion, I talked about how God brought about a shift in the Israelites' Marah experience by turning bitterness into sweetness. Today's devotion focuses on what God used to bring about the shift, a piece of wood.
Who would have thought that an ordinary piece of wood could turn bitter water into sweet? This narrative shows that when God is involved, the mundane becomes miraculous. The wood itself had no special power; the transformation came through God’s divine instruction.
This teaches us that God doesn’t need grand gestures or perfect conditions to work in our lives. He can use something as simple as a piece of wood—or a person like you or me—to shift our circumstances. Never underestimate the tools, people, or moments that God places in your life. They may be His way of bringing sweetness to your bitterness or clarity to your confusion.
Obedience is crucial in unlocking God’s blessings. Imagine if Moses had not followed God’s instruction to throw the wood into the water—Marah would have remained bitter. In my own life, I’ve experienced profound shifts through simple acts of obedience, like giving. One day, I felt an urge to give, and that act of faith opened doors to unexpected blessings.
Practical Reflection
Look Beyond the Obvious: Just as the Israelites didn’t see the potential in the wood, we often miss God’s provision because it doesn’t look like what we expect. Ask God to open your eyes to the ways He might already be working.
Trust God's Instructions: Moses obeyed God’s command to throw the wood into the water, even though it didn’t make sense logically. Sometimes, we have to trust God’s leading, even when it defies our understanding.
Be a Vessel: If God can use a piece of wood, imagine how much more He can use you. Stay available and willing to serve His purpose.
Closing Thoughts
The God who can use a piece of wood to sweeten bitter waters is still at work today. Your miracle may be tied to something that seems insignificant or someone you least expect. Trust God to use whatever He chooses to bring about His purpose in your life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God who can use the simplest things to bring about great transformation. Help me to trust Your ways and see the potential in what You’ve placed around me. Open my eyes to Your provision and give me faith to obey Your instructions, even when they don’t make sense. May my life be a vessel for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.