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Monday, January 14, 2013 -- Strength

Monday January 14, 2013


No matter how strong we feel, it’s not enough to bring us through to sustained recovery.  We will tire out and we will give up the struggle if we think any physical or mental strength we feel is enough for the long haul.  Strength is a gift.  Strength is the product of an ongoing relationship with God.  Strength is the result of trusting God, waiting for God to act, and following God’s voice and plan.  This is what gives us joy, keeps us safe, and helps us understand and respond well to the events of our day.

The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my victory ... God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble ...  Christ is the mighty power of God and the wisdom of God. This “foolish” plan of God is far wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God’s weakness is far stronger than the greatest of human strength (Exodus 15:2, Psalm 46:1, 1 Corinthians 1:24b-25 NLT)

Jesus clearly taught us that our only real strength comes when we remain in His care and grow in His grace.  He used a gardening picture to help us understand.  “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.  Anyone who parts from me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned.  (John 15:5-6 NLT)

Outside of God, we can’t even maintain the desire to do what is right let alone find the strength to act on what we know we ought to do.  For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him.  (Philippians 2:13 NLT)  It is the experience of those who have walked with God that He pours out power at the very time we feel weak and that’s what actually makes us strong.  God says:  “My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness.”  (2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT)  As we ask for, and receive God’s grace and power, then we are able to say, “For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.”  (Philippians 4:13 NLT)

Audio for Monday, January 14, 2013 -- Strength

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