When I think of the power of God I often picture gigantic ocean waves or dark storm clouds approaching. I sometimes think of armies of the Old Testament that God defeated with the power of his mighty hand. Indeed God’s power is evident in large displays.
But often, God’s awesome power moves in small ways. In my opinion, the most significant display of his power is when it changes the heart of a person. He can turn someone from a fearful people-pleaser to a fearless leader when they are open to let his power work.
Luke records in the book of Acts that the early followers of Jesus didn’t ask the Father for the kind of power to topple mountains or overthrow rulers. They didn't even ask him to remove them from the dangers of arrest or persecution. Instead, they asked for boldness to speak his name in the midst of the dangers. They asked that his power would go out and heal the sick. Their motivation was for God’s power to be shown so that people would know that Jesus was the Christ.
I must confess that most of my prayers revolve around God using his power to remove the big obstacles that are in my way, not to help me get over them. Maybe you can relate. Perhaps we can take cues from the first-century Christians in how to pray for God’s power.
Prayer: Father, change my heart. Give me boldness to live for you. May I see and feel your power work in my own heart as I try to become more like you.
For Today: Read Acts 4 and be encouraged. This is an incredible story of courage and faith in the early church.
Photo Credit: Morteza Akhnia