Evidence of God’s power is all around us, especially in Creation. The African bush elephant can lift up to 13,230 pounds—about the weight of four and a half Honda Civics. The saltwater crocodile has the bite strength of thirteen times a lion’s and twenty-five times a man’s. The Lord put the powerful wind, waves, and lightning into motion. A lightning bolt travels at about 62 million mph, reaches about 54,000 degrees Fahrenheit, and produces enough energy to power a 60-watt light bulb for over six months. “Superbolts” can actually have 1,000 times more energy. Nature is a fierce force, created by an even more powerful Savior. “For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him” (Colossians 1:16).
We also see the Lord’s power through changing circumstances, miracles, and changed lives. Relying on God’s power gives us confidence, strength, assurance, direction, and boldness to live the Christian life as it is intended to be lived. Whatever trouble or circumstances we have on earth, we know that we have an awesome God who is capable of handling those problems. Ephesians 3:20 tells us that God “is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us.” When you face the impossible and unimaginable, remember Jesus’ own words, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26b). God operates outside of our ideas and solutions and beyond our human capabilities as our:
- Powerful Provider: “Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all, and in Your hand is power and might; and it lies in Your hand to make great and to strengthen everyone” (1 Chronicles 29:12). “Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength…They will run and not get tired. They will walk and not become weary” (Isaiah 40:31).
- Powerful Rescuer: David wrote, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears and rescues them from all their troubles” (Psalm 34:17). “Nevertheless He saved them for the sake of His name, so that He might make His power known” (Psalm 106:8).
- Powerful Shield: King David wrote, “But You, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head” (Psalm 3:3). A Christian’s faith is sustained by God’s power. “[We] are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:5).
- Powerful Deliverer: He delivered us from sin. “For indeed He was crucified because of weakness, yet He lives because of the power of God. For we too are weak in Him, yet we will live with Him because of the power of God directed toward you” (2 Cor. 13:4). Jesus has the power to save us: “For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day” (John 6:40).
The Lord is always at work, and His power is on full display. It is available to all who call Him Savior and Lord.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 18:16-19
Personal Application: The Lord can direct, equip and guide you with each decision and action you will have this week. Meditate on Philippians 4:13. Are you relying upon God’s strength or your own. How do you need His strength today?
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5