God’s Power

Read Romans 1:16, 1 Corinthians 4:20, 1 Thessalonians 1:5, and 2 Timothy 1:7.

If you are like me, you probably do your best in praying for others’ needs, healing, and opportunities to share the gospel. Like me, you probably don’t always see results that match how Jesus and the disciples ministered to people.

This bothers me, and I always wonder about that disconnect. Lately, I’ve noticed that one thing consistently accompanied Jesus and the early church as they prayed for and shared with people—power. God’s power that brought people to repentance and instant healing to their bodies. I see this all over the New Testament:

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes..." -Romans 1:16

"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power" -1Corinthians 4:20

"...because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction.  You know how we lived among you for your sake." -1 Thessalonians 1:5

"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline." -2 Timothy 1:7

The last verse really stands out to me. I consistently move in a spirit of love and self-discipline but am lacking in the spirit of power department. People are touched by my prayer and that I care enough to share the gospel with them, but I want to experience more. I want to see them touched by God’s power!

God, do whatever it takes to bring us to a place of humility, desperation, and seeking Your face so that we can see You move in power. Amen.

-from a missionary to Russia