Power
Power and Suffering

Scripture Reading: Acts 21:30-36

Key Verses: Ephesians 3:12-13

In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

In our scripture reading today, you read about a time when the apostle Paul was attacked by an entire city. The mobs of angry people were trying to kill him. Roman soldiers had to step in and pull Paul from the crowds bent on hurting Paul. After reading that story, it doesn’t sound like Paul was operating in God’s mighty power as they hauled him off in chains. In our Key Verse, the apostle refers to his own history of suffering and asks believers not to be discouraged by it! The apostle was trying to let these early Christ followers know that God’s power isn’t understood by human wisdom. The world’s experience with power can’t be compared to God’s version of power.

Don’t get discouraged today when things don’t go right. Don’t allow your faith to falter when reversals touch your life! God never sleeps or slumbers. He hasn’t abandoned you and never will! God’s power in you is working, but don’t try to analyze it. His ways are higher than our ways, past finding out! God’s power to bring about great things in you uses all circumstances. There are no wasted experiences or events—good or bad—that God’s power won’t use to make gains in our lives. If we allow discouragement to linger long, we insult the God who is working so powerfully behind the scenes! Don’t stumble. Only believe!

“Father, I am going to fight my tendency to focus on the negatives and forget your power that is working in me. With your help, I will live in confidence and joy today. In Jesus’ Name, amen.