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February 23, 2016
God's Power In Me |
“And what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power.” Ephesians 1:19 (KJV)
Each May we look forward to the annual Campbell family kickball game. Lines are drawn and bases placed before the teams are chosen. While I’m always the last one picked, I still give it my all.
One time I kicked the ball to the third basemen, and took off for first base. In my mind’s eye, I was a blur. As the third baseman swept up the ball and hurled to first, someone called out, “Slide!” So I did.
Stretching my arms toward the base, I slid through the dirt head-first, certain I had made it. But when the dust cleared, reality settled in. I was nowhere near the base.
Looking up, I saw my niece standing on the base giggling as she tossed the ball up and down in her hand. There I lay halfway between home plate and first base. Everyone laughed. All in fun, of course, but it still hurt my feelings. I did the best I could.
Back at the dugout, my sweet husband pulled me into his sweaty chest, wrapped his arms around me and squeezed me tight.
“Hey. What if I kick the ball for you next time? Then you would be sure to make it to first base. Maybe second.” He proposed the idea with a big grin across his face. Knowing he was stronger, I accepted.
Next time I was up, Pat got ready to kick while I positioned myself to run. As soon as I heard the plunk of the ball, I took off for first, then second, then third base! Just when I thought I couldn’t run anymore, the cheers of my team beckoned me on. “Don’t stop! Keep going!” As I crossed home plate, everyone applauded.
Amazed and breathless, I questioned, “What happened?”
“Dad kicked the ball over the tree line,” my daughter explained. “It was an automatic home run,” she added. Now it made sense.
If it weren’t for Pat’s powerful kick that day, I would have never tasted the sweetness of victory.
In a similar way, God provides the power we lack to succeed at life.
We hear about God’s power and greatness to help us when we lose our job, when our health falters, when we go through a painful divorce or when our dreams are smashed. Yet, the main question we can ask ourselves is, “How do I rely on His power?”
The answer lies within today’s verse: “And what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power” (Ephesians 1:19).
According to Paul, we rely on God’s power to work in us by faith. As Christ-followers, our hope is greater than we know because Christ resides in us. That means you and I have Divine greatness in us. Those who believe in Him experience the wonder of His power.
No matter how ill-equipped we are, we have the assurance that in our situation God “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us” (Ephesians 3:20, NIV).
God isn’t limited by what we ask. He can go beyond that. In fact, He does exceedingly greater than what we ask or dream. However, the key is in believing that He can.
So, instead of doubting what I think God can’t or won’t do, I’ve started believing in what He can do! It’s made a great difference in my life.
Through His might, I’m able to stop yelling at my kids. I can love that person who rubs me the wrong way. I can patiently wait in traffic if I choose to believe and rely on God’s mighty power in me. Otherwise, I fail miserably. Maybe you can relate.
Relying on God to do great things through me isn’t any different than relying on my husband Pat’s kick. Because Pat was strong enough to send the ball soaring, I was able to do the impossible — score a home run.
With God, we can do more than we could ever hope for.
So, what is it that you need? Ask Him in faith and God will supply the power.
Dear God, I believe in Your mighty power at work in me. Help my unbelief. In Jesus Name, Amen.
TRUTH FOR TODAY:
2 Corinthians 9:8, “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (NIV)
Philippians 4:19, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
RELATED RESOURCES:
If you’re looking to find freedom from fears in your life and unleash God’s power, you’ll appreciate An Untroubled Heart by Micca Campbell.
Stop by Micca’s blog today to connect with her for more encouragement.
REFLECT AND RESPOND:
Identify an area in your life where you need the power of God. Share any doubts you have (God already knows them anyway). Believe He can do immeasurably more. Rely on His power.
© 2016 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
630 Team Rd., Suite 100
Matthews, NC 28105
www.Proverbs31.org
Originally published Tuesday, 23 February 2016.
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