Tag Archives: God’s power

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” (Ephesians 6:10, NIV)

That word, “finally,” begins an introduction to the key to success in all of the areas of life previously addressed by Paul in the preceding chapters: How to live for Christ at work, at home, with your children, with your spouse.

This key is not a strength derived from within ourselves; rather, it is a strength derived from God, Whose power — unlike our own — is always sufficient.

Paul used the metaphor of a Roman soldier’s armor kit to introduce the aspects of this “mighty power”: Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the word of God, and the practice of prayer for others. (Vss. 11-20)

Endeavor to live each moment of each day “armored up,” and totally reliant on God’s strength with you, for you, and within you.  Doing so is a testimony to those who know not God — and an encouragement to those who do.  – Luther

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“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” (Psalm 145:3-4, NIV)

Most of what we know of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and power has been commended to us from those who have gone before us; whether from persons noted in the Bible, or from relatives and friends personally known to us.

As disciples of Jesus, we have the privilege and the opportunity to pass-along word of God’s “mighty acts” to other generations. 

What have you seen God do — either for yourself, or for others? 

Based on your personal experience, are you telling the story of His love toward you? Does your life, and your lifestyle, commend Him to those in other generations?  – Luther

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“Jesus replied, ‘You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.'” (Matthew 22: 29, NIV)

Ouch!

What a stinging rebuke it was to the people to whom Jesus spoke these words: People whose business it was to know both the Scriptures and the power of God.

As followers of Jesus, we are also expected to know both the word of God, and the power of God.  Our Lord expects it of us.  The watching world expects it of us; and we ought to expect it of ourselves.

The former we acquire through diligent study; and the latter we acquire through faithful obedience. This is our safeguard against error.  – Luther

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