Life
can seem impossible, especially when there has been great loss. How does anyone
move forward after experiencing the death of a loved one? For that matter, how
does an individual continue on with life when they have been told they have
limited time? Or, how does someone move forward after losing their job, their
home, and the list goes on . . .
We can try to go forward on our own; however, eventually we lose our strength and even desire. The only way to truly have the ability to move forward when there is loss is to receive the infusing strength of God.
The
thing is . . . the power . . . is a promised gift from Christ: But you shall receive power
(ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and
you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the
ends (the very bounds) of the earth. Acts 1:8
When we see the word . . . "but" . . . in the scriptures . . . we need to ask "but, what"? Typically that requires studying the previous scriptures.
When we see the word . . . "but" . . . in the scriptures . . . we need to ask "but, what"? Typically that requires studying the previous scriptures.
So . . . but, what in Acts 1:8?
God promises that we will not know the times and dates of His return (see Acts 1:7 ) but we shall receive the power of the Holy Spirit. But . . . even in the impossible of the unknown . . . we can receive the power of God.
The
power of God is as close as His presence . . . changing how we perceive and
manage life . . . and it is what makes us strong: But he said to me, "My grace is
sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I
will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may
rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
In the previous verses (see 2 Corinthians 12:1-8), Paul discusses his problems; however, 2 Corinthians 12:9 declares the power of the grace of God is sufficient. Even though we the impossible, there is power available.
The
promise of this verse is one to remember through another small word, "is."
The
grace of God IS sufficient . . . meaning it IS present right now and IS enough
for whatever we are facing.
The
power of God IS made perfect in weakness . . . as our need is surrendered to
God we open ourselves up to the power that penetrates our need giving strength
to not only move forward but to be restored.
Receive the grace of God, which IS sufficient for our needs.
Surrender to the power of God, which IS made perfect in our weakness.
Receive the grace of God, which IS sufficient for our needs.
Surrender to the power of God, which IS made perfect in our weakness.
Learning
with you to KICK START the day . . . in the sufficiency of the power of God.
Pastor Kerrie (written by Kerrie Palmer © 2010 All Rights Reserved)
interactstudies/ ~ kpalmer@hillchurch.com ~Church on the Hill~700 N. Hill Rd.~McMinnv,lle, OR 97128~503.472.8476 ~www.hillchurch.com~Archives & Daily Subscription: go to http://kickstarttoday.blogspot.com/