Today you see more and more electric vehicles on the road. Since electric charging stations are fewer and substantially slower than gas stations, those drivers carefully think through each trip and how much battery power they have left over when they return home. It’s not like you can bring a “can” of electric power to help them out on the side of the road if they run out.
In Philippians 1:15-20, Paul was well aware of his need for strength and clearly identifies his source of power. He could see what God was REALLY doing in the hardships, suffering, and uncertain circumstances of his life. This insight didn’t come from an overdeveloped personal confidence in his own abilities. He wasn’t an accomplished sleuth, able to escape prison whenever he wanted to. And it wasn’t like he didn’t feel the cold, hunger, beatings, or insults because of his super human strength.
No, Paul identifies his source of strength: “…through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ…” He was aware of his own shortcomings, but not limited by them. He told the church in Corinth, “And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” (1 Cor. 2:3,4)
As we are seeking God’s vision for Valley Church, we are aware of our shortcomings, but not limited by them because we are asking for God’s power. Zechariah 4:6 says, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.” How do we appropriate that power? Just as Paul says, “…through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ…”
We were thrilled to see 270 people come out for our kick off “Second Friday”! We know many people have been fasting and praying together on “First Tuesdays” for God to fill us with His power! We continue to ask God at “The Gathering” (next one coming up Sunday, Feb 26, at 6 pm) for supernatural resources that are far beyond our own abilities. There are many prayer groups all over Valley Church – men’s, women’s, missions… They indicate that we are aware of our need for God’s power.
And God is more than willing to give it… more than enough for the journey all the way “home”.
In Christ alone,
Kurt
P.S. If you’d like to join us to pray for God’s power on Sunday mornings before services, we meet at 8 am in room 3191 (downstairs in building 3 at the end of the hall near the parking lot).