Verse for today – “and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ when He raised Him from the dead… (Eph. 1:19-20).”

About 22 years ago I was working at Herb Gordon Dodge in Silver Spring, MD and it was 12:00 noon. I grabbed my bag lunch and headed for the forest behind the shop to walk and pray. It was a beautiful clear day and I felt remarkably close to God as we talked about life. However, something was troubling me. The Lord kept bringing some words to my mind from the Bible: “Go and make disciples of all the nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age (Matt. 28:19-20).” These are a few of Jesus’ final words, final wishes that He gave to us before He left the planet.

I wanted very much to fulfill this commission, but I was feeling unsuccessful in the work. Finally, with some degree of frustration, I announced to the Lord, “I just do not know how to do this!” Instantly a thought sprang into my mind, that I am convinced to this day, came directly from the risen Lord Jesus. The thought was simple: “Sam, if you will let me, I can teach you.” And for the past 22 years He has been doing His work in my heart. It is interesting that most of what I seem to learn is to trust God’s leadership and follow Him. I am learning to ask for His help. I am learning to obey. I am learning that my weaknesses are not nearly as important as God’s strength.

Today’s verse shouts this message to all who truly belong to Christ. His power is at work in you! His power far surpasses all human authority and all superhuman reality. His power raised Jesus from the dead! Paul prays that the eyes of our heart will be opened to this reality. Never believe that you cannot overcome sin and temptation! God’s power is at work in you! Never think that you cannot defeat your fears! God’s wisdom and power are far greater! NEVER give up on your LIFE or GROWTH Christian. God is WITH you and IN you, and He will never stop!