Day 12: Making an Impact Through Weakness
Friday, February 19
READ
REFLECT
While many of us do not like to admit it, too many of us drive too often with our gas gauge needle in the red space. We may do so because we are trying to budget our money, we are too busy, we don’t want to get outside to pump gas in the cold, or many other reasons. However, we run the risk of running out of gas when we need it the most!
Something else we are afraid to admit is that we often spend our days running on an empty spiritual gas tank. Yet, we try to persuade ourselves, others, and God that we can handle whatever we are facing on our own power. Sooner or later, we run out of gas and burn out. Rather than trying to live in our own strength, God desires that we confess our weakness to Him. When we confess our weakness, God stands ready to display His strength and power in our lives.
Paul discovered it was through personal weakness that God’s power is displayed. He would know! The experiences in his life often left him with no choice but to depend on God’s strength. As a result, Paul discovered the power of God that filled the void created by his weakness.
Our modern culture tempts us to believe the lie that life is best lived in our own power and strength. Many argue that trusting in God is a crutch. This lie basically elevates human strength to a place where it does not belong. Unfortunately, many Christians believe this lie and lose the opportunity to make an impact on a lost world. Rather than influencing culture, they are influenced by culture. We must remember that God will not use us when are proud of our strength but will use us when we boast of our weakness.
RESPOND
Spend time in prayer, following the Upward, Inward, Outward, Upward format.
Upward: Who God is; What God has done, is doing, will do
Inward: Who you are; How you live
Outward: Intercession for others; unified prayer focus with Pathway
TODAY’S PRAYER: Powerful Father, we confess our weakness. We confess that our strength is no match for your power. We realize your power is manifested when we are weak. So, God, we eagerly confess our need for you today. Forgive us for trying to impact the world through human power and strength rather than allowing your power to work through our weakness.
Upward: Thanksgiving and Worship
On day 12 in our 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, Jeff Studebaker shares some thoughts about how we can make a positive impact our culture through our weaknesses.
Join us at Pathway this month for four Prayer and Worship Gatherings. Read more HERE.
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