In a world driven by personalities, platforms, and popularity, it’s easy to become more focused on who is delivering the Word than what is being said. But Scripture reminds us time and time again: God uses whomever He chooses to deliver His truth—and the power lies in the message, not the messenger.
Don’t Miss the Voice of God Because of the Vessel
One of the most striking examples of this in Scripture comes from Numbers 22, in the story of Balaam and his donkey. Balaam, a prophet with questionable motives, was on a path of disobedience when God used a most unlikely messenger—a donkey—to open his eyes.
“Then the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and it said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?’”
(Numbers 22:28, NIV)
This isn’t just a story about a talking animal. It’s a powerful reminder that God can use anything—or anyone—to speak truth. If we’re too busy criticizing the vessel, we might miss the voice of the Lord entirely.
Gospel Truth Carries Its Own Authority
When the Gospel is preached, its power doesn’t depend on the eloquence, background, or popularity of the preacher. As Paul writes in Philippians 1:15–18, even if the Gospel is proclaimed with questionable motives, what matters most is that Christ is preached.
Certainly, we should seek ministers of integrity, character, and sound doctrine—but we should never idolize them. Ministers are not celebrities. They are servants. And like Balaam’s donkey, they are instruments in the hands of God, not the source of the message.
Avoid the Trap of Over-Scrutiny
In today’s culture, it’s easy to slip into the habit of criticizing, dissecting, or even worshiping spiritual leaders. But that scrutiny can blind us to the real question: “Is God speaking here?”
We must be discerning, yes—but also humble. God has spoken through shepherds, kings, fishermen, tax collectors, prophets, and yes, even animals. If God speaks through someone unexpected, are we willing to listen?
What Matters Most
As believers, we need to remind ourselves often: our allegiance is to the message, not the messenger. Our hope is built on Jesus Christ, not the personality of the preacher. Whether the Gospel comes from a pulpit, a podcast, a prison cell, or yes—even a donkey—if it’s the Word of God, it deserves our attention, reverence, and obedience.
So next time you hear a sermon, read a devotion, or receive a word of truth from an unexpected place, ask yourself:
👉 “Is this God’s truth?”
If it is, listen. Not because of who’s speaking—but because God is speaking.
Stay bold, stay humble, and never fear the truth—no matter who delivers it.
