When God’s Power Works Best

Not only do we receive God’s power in our lives when we acknowledge our weakness, but God’s power in us works best when we keep the Gospel at the forefront of our minds. The Gospel declares to us our utter dependence on Him, His mercy, and saving grace. When we rely on His strength alone, we receive freedom and peace. But when we rely on our own abilities, talents, or intelligence, we crowd out the potential for God’s power. Like the apostle Paul, we should rejoice whenever we remember our weaknesses because then we will be able to see God’s full work and power within us.

In our own strength, we will fail every time. We will give in to the world’s temptations and philosophies and cravings for power. Paul warned, “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:5-6).

In addition to admitting our weaknesses, we must also avoid the enemy’s ambushes. We must constantly be aware of and prepared for the traps of the devil. We cannot afford to live in ignorance or denial. When we are informed and ready, we are more likely to avoid the traps “in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11).

Prayer: God, help me to rely on Your strength alone because I know that I will fail on my own. Help me to be aware and on guard against the traps of the enemy. Thank You for always providing the grace I need to live in victory. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.