A Willing Heart

The angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon while he was hiding from his enemies in fear. Yet the angel’s message was, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12, NIV). Gideon did not feel strong or courageous—quite the opposite! But God wasn’t speaking about Gideon’s past or his ability. He was announcing what He could do through His powerful presence.

That same truth changed Andrew Palau’s life. For years, Andrew resisted God’s call to be a preaching evangelist. Speaking in public filled him with dread—he knew he wasn’t good at it! And he felt certain he was the wrong person for the job.

But when he read Gideon’s story, the words of Judges 6:12 struck Andrew. God called Gideon “mighty warrior” before he ever fought a battle. Andrew realized God wasn’t dependent on human ability—but His own ability. God was declaring what was possible through His own strength.

That realization shifted everything. As Andrew surrendered his fear, God began to use his willing heart. He started to publicly deliver Gospel messages, and went on to speak words of life-changing impact to thousands around the world. It was never about becoming the most skilled or confident—it was always about trusting that God was faithful and able to work through him. And God has proven that again and again.

Gideon’s story—and Andrew’s—show that God often calls the unlikely. Moses felt inadequate, Jeremiah thought he was too young, and the first messengers of the Gospel were ordinary tradesmen. Yet God moved through each of them to testify of His power and strength.

What about you? Where might God be inviting you to trust His presence and power in the middle of your weakness? What could He be calling you to step into—not because you feel ready—but because you have a willing heart, and because He promises to go with you?