Tag Archives: God’s power

“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”  (2 Timothy 1:6, NIV)

The Holy Spirit is not, as it is sometimes described, a gift from God; it is the gift of God.  As finite beings, we lack the capacity to have 100 percent of an infinite God; but we should aspire (and perspire) toward the place where God is 100 percent within us.  In other words, His will is our will — and we desire no other.

What corners and niches in our living are bereft of God’s holy presence?

If God’s Spirit is only an ember within us, then it is easy to see why our so-called “business” life; and our so-called “social” life; and our so-called “political” life are beyond the mere influence — let alone, the control — of the Spirit of God.

As Paul reminded his protege, Timothy, an ember easily becomes a flame when it is “encouraged.”  Through prayer and practice, fan into flame (work-out) the gift that God has “worked-in.”  – Luther

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“Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.”  (1 Thessalonians 5:19, NLT)

When we stifle the Holy Spirit, we are denying ourselves the very power we need to face the challenges of our days.

The Holy Spirit is wisdom, understanding, counsel, power, and knowledge.  (Isaiah 11:2)

The Holy Spirit is living and active.  When the Spirit urges you to move, do not stifle its impulses — move!  – Luther

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“Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will take a stand for me against evildoers? Unless the Lord had given me help, I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death. When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” (Psalm 94:16-19, NIV)

Reflecting on the role of power and influence in our world, comedian Woody Allen said: “The race may not go to the swift, or victory to the strong, but that’s how you bet.”

Today’s reading, however, reminds us that although the wicked co-exist with the righteous — and often have the stronger hand — God is the champion of the righteous.

Were it not for the Lord God’s help, we would be dead.  When we slip or stumble, God’s unfailing love supports us.  When we are severely anxious, God’s consolation fills our dreadful heart with joy.

The odds-makers and betters will always prefer the swiftest and the strongest.  The Lord God backs the slow and the weak, when they put their faith in Him.  – Luther

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