Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – October 23, 2015
And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations—‘He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter’s vessels’—as I also have received from My Father; and I will give him the morning star. Revelation 2:26-28, NKJV
A few years ago a tornado ripped through the small town where I grew up. Everything in its path was uprooted and destroyed. For a period of time my in-laws were powerless—until we were able to find a generator and personally deliver it to their home. In a similar fashion my life can be in disarray from sin’s destruction. I feel powerless to forces outside my control, but God gives me access to His power. Grace is His generator to empower my life during destructive times.
John wrote to Christians who were dismissed and suppressed for their beliefs and their behavior. Humanly speaking, they were powerless in the face of an overreaching government and a hostile culture. However, the Holy Spirit speaking through the pen of the Apostle reminded this influential minority—a band of believers in Christ—to remain faithful in their love for the Lord Jesus. The Holy Spirit’s power supersedes society’s criticism and apathy toward God. We diligently serve until the sunset of life—anticipating the morning star of our Savior’s glory!
“I [Jesus] have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Do you feel powerless with a problem or person? You may feel hopeless—even helpless, but your heavenly Father has the power to energize your faith in your fragile condition. The Spirit specializes in taking the weak and making them strong. An ailing condition qualifies you to be a recipient of God’s grace. Satan tries to short circuit your trust with his destructive lies: “Your spouse doesn’t really care—he doesn’t love you.” “There are no solutions, you will always be frustrated.” But Jesus has answers: “Remain in My love—I will empower you with My wisdom”.
Seek the Lord’s wisdom in His word. Truth is our “flu shot” against the virus of sickly thinking. Empowered by God’s grace we are positioned to serve for the benefit of others. Our life on earth is a test in the faithful management of the Spirit’s blessings, so we can be entrusted with more favor in eternity. The Lord’s power used for His glory electrifies all of us who are citizens of the Kingdom. The world will one day bow down to the One who gave away all power to empower. So, be bold—not shy about the Gospel’s incredible power. Access God’s power for His glory!
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, by faith I access Your power for energy and grace to serve in Your Kingdom.
Application: Who needs my influence, support and love to be empowered?
Related Readings: Psalm 2:8; Isaiah 10:33; Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 1:18
Post/Tweet this today: Truth is our “flu shot” against the virus of sickly thinking. #accesstopower #wisdomhunters
Worship Resource: 4 minute video- Gaither’s: There is Power in the Blood
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