The Power Of The Chameleon
“God gives you the power of the chameleon to obtain wealth”
Deuteronomy 8:18
Does God ever strike you as witty?
He is always ready to burst your bubble of limited thinking, and why not use a lizard to capture your attention?
I hope you’ve noticed by now that we aren’t only pulling donkeys out of wells on the Sabbath day (thank you, Jesus!) but we’re also learning to be shrewd and wise as serpents (while being gentle as doves).
And yes, God particularly enjoys all the animal analogies (just take a peek at His word).
So, what I’ve come to learn is that the “verboten” is exactly what the Father desires to showcase His cleverness.
After all, it is the glory of God to hide and the glory of kings to seek and find.
Not only does the chameleon pique my interest with its unique and fresh take on the Father’s wit, but it’s 100% accurate at the same time.
The Power of the Chameleon
The Hebrew word for power in Deuteronomy 8:18 is “כּוֹחַ” pronounced “kôach.”
It has several meanings, with a few being: vigour, force, large-lizard, chameleon, ability, fruits and strength, with the understanding that it can be used for good or evil.
In essence, the hidden code in this Bible verse is quite simple, and the answer is found in the words of Jesus:
“Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of His own accord, but only what He sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.” (John 5:19, ESV)
Personality: A Force for Good or Evil
At this point, you’re probably wondering where I’m going with this message. Hang in with me here.
A few months ago, the Holy Spirit impressed upon my spirit that my personality was getting in the way of what He wanted.
“You’re too predictable.”
It was the wake-up call of a lifetime.
Yes, I was predictable by the enemy and by people. God could speak, but my way of thinking would overpower the “knowing.” Soon, this course correction had me crying out:
“Lord, don’t let my personality limit what you want to do on the earth. I will lay myself down at Your feet. Break me free of the limitations.”
His response was to highlight how Jesus conducted His life.
He went for hikes up mountains, walked the shores of Galilee with His disciples, climbed into fishing boats, taught in the Temple, beat the money changers, ate corn with unwashed hands, and even disagreed with others when needed!
There was not one time when Jesus walked according to His ways and thoughts but according to what the Father showed Him.
It was the crucified life, the anointing of Gethsemane, crushing His flesh daily so He could live by God’s Word.
“I only do what I see the Father doing.”
Jesus was never “one way at all times” but “one way at any time according to God’s will.”
In real-time, Jesus adjusted His thoughts, words, and behavior to match that of our Heavenly Father.
Much like the chameleon’s ability to change colours in a situation.
Be Just Like The Chameleon
A chameleon changes colour based on communication needs or temperature changes. At times, they will blend into their surroundings (though not the primary reason for this ability).
They are specially equipped to strike at the right time, in the right way, and under the right circumstances.
Patience is the hallmark of this unique creature.
As the Lord led me down this path, I could only think of one way to describe what He was asking of me:
“Be just like the chameleon. Whatever I’m asking of you at any time, I’ve also given you the power to perform it. Just trust me.”
So, if you’re feeling witty, take a deep dive into God’s treasure trove of hidden codes in His Word.
Or, if you want to break free from limited thinking, go pull a few donkeys out of wells on the Sabbath.
And…
