February 1 You are amazing!

Philippians 4:12b-13
12 ….. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

If someone told you that you would be asked you to do certain things for which you have no training, you would tell them it is impossible. You would deny the ability to accomplish that goal or task. After all, you don’t know how to do what you have been asked to do.

My best friend is in the end stages of ALS. His wife (who is probably tied with my wife for second best friend because we have known each other so long) is his primary care giver. She is doing things that amaze me. Things for which she has no training. Things that she would deny the ability to do; yet, they are getting done. And no one is more shocked than she is.

We all have a tendency to doubt what we are able to accomplish because we believe we do things in our own power. Well we don’t do things in our own power. It took me a long time to figure that out. I used to think everything was up to me but with power comes responsibility. I thought I was in control and I was the one that made things happen. When I became aware of the power all around me that was really behind me, things became easier and better. I thought that it was my responsibility to make things happen. When it did not go the way I planned, I felt badly as if I had failed. Each time I looked at the darkness of the world, I was ashamed I had not cleaned up my corner of the world as if that were possible. Well I am not in control now and never was. What a relief!

There are two extremes playing out here. One is not feeling capable and the other is believing you are in control. Neither is good for us and both are unbelief. If you don’t think you can do it, you are not seeing things in the Spiritual realm. You are not seeing the horseman and chariots of fire the Lord has sent to your aid. If you are believing you are a self-made man or woman, you are missing the Holy Spirit which teaches and guides you into all things. It is a delicate balance and it is best we not walk this tightrope alone. By walking with another person of faith, you can remind each other you are children of the Most High God and that He will equip and guide you through all things. The Bible tells us we ought not think too highly of ourselves but it also says we are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are amazing. As dearly loved children of God, He will anoint, equip and empower us to do all things through Christ who gives us strength. Do not be afraid. Remember, Psalm 121:4 (NKJV) says Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. He not only keeps Israel, He keeps you. You are never on your own! Listen for His word and act boldly in His name today!

Lord, thank You that You are always with us and that You provide all we need. Thank You for the gifts and talents You have given us. May we use them to Your glory and other’s benefit. I jesus name we pray!

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