Sunday, July 3, 2011

God's Power Is Within You by Ann Elaine Broughton

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline” (2 Timothy 2:7 NIV).

There are many examples of God's power working through people in the Bible. The Lord showed His power when he picked a shepherd boy to fight a giant with his little sling shot. Do you know what David said as he faced the giant? "This day the Lord will hand you over to me.......All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's, and he will give all of you into our hands “ (I Samuel 17:46,47 NIV). He had confidence in the Lord and knew that if he believed mighty things would happen. David became a king, because he was a man after God's own heart.

Jeremiah, the prophet, was a timid man. When he was called by God to be a prophet he told God, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child. But the Lord said," Do not say, I am only a child. You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you" (Jeremiah 1:6-8 NIV). The Lord fulfilled his promise and did give him the strength and courage to be a prophet. So you see what God’s power can do through even a child.

How does this impact your life? You need to understand that God can use anyone to fulfill His purpose on this earth. You don't have to be a great orator because the Lord will give you the words, just like He did for Jeremiah. It is Christ in you who gives you the strength and wisdom to do His will. You are called to do something for the Lord. You have a special gift that can be used to help someone else to see Christ. The men above devoted their whole lives to serving God. When we become Christians we make a commitment to God to do our best to serve Him in whatever manner He wants us to serve. We must rely on His power to do this.

Dear Lord,
We know that you are within us and that you have promised to give us the strength, wisdom, and courage to fulfill whatever your plan is for us. Help us to be brave and step out with your strength knowing that you have promised never to fail us.
In Jesus' name,
Amen

Perseverance: A devotion by Ann Broughton

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