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Have you ever had a parent, teacher, or coach challenge you to do something you thought was beyond your capabilities, but with a lot of practice and perseverance you were able to rise to the challenge? This is common within our culture. And this form of teaching or coaching has a lot of benefits. It’s good to be challenged and to learn how to persevere.
But this form of teaching or coaching can have some downsides to it as well. Some come to believe that they can overcome any obstacle that may arise. So when a difficult situation comes their way, they will do everything in their power to overcome it. If they fail, they’ll try again. And again. They won’t ask others for help and will instead believe that they can overcome this challenge in their own strength.
In Ephesians, Paul reminds all followers of Jesus that God not only has unlimited resources and strength, but he empowers us with His strength (3:16-17). We ought not – and must not – attempt to live our lives primarily in our own strength. It is the strength of God through His Spirit within us that empowers us to live the life He has created us to live.
READING & PRAYERS:
EPHESIANS 3:14-19 (also read the commentary notes in your study bible of choice)
Are you more likely to try to overcome challenges using your own strength, or are you more likely to rely on the strength of God? (Consider writing down examples of times when you have done each of these. See if you can identify a pattern as to the kinds of situations you’re more likely to use your own strength.)
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that more often than not, I enter into challenging situations by relying on my own strength instead of resting in Your strength that is within me. Continue to help me grow by recognizing Your strength within me and resting in it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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