Have you ever noticed how capable humans are at ignoring the things that we don’t want to deal with? We construct blind spots simply because we do not want to face the reality of our situation.
This also happens in groups. Here is a case in point.
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Ephesians 6:10
In my humble opinion, this is the most power-filled verse in the entire Bible. Three of God’s “power” words are included:
- Be strong (endynamoō): The root is dynamis – the explosive power of God.
- Power (kratos): The dominion of God – the power of His authority to reign.
- Might (ischys): The ability and force of God – to accomplish what He intends.
This is what Paul is talking about when he goes on to encourage us to put on the whole armor of God. This is what it takes to stand against the wiles of the devil. Get your head around that!
As leaders in the Workplace – that includes all segments (business, religion, education, government, etc.) – we are responsible for leading others into this kind of radical life. Note carefully: This is the normal Christian life!
But how can we lead them into something that we have not experienced ourselves? Are you as frustrated as I am? Where is the power? What are we doing wrong?
A. W. Tozer (1897–1963) was an American writer, teacher and pastor. He was also a prophet to the American church. He saw, even in His day, the decline that was coming.
Our mistake is that we want God to send revival on our terms. We want to get the power of God into our hands, to call it to us that it may work for us in promoting and furthering our kind of Christianity. The Size of the Soul; A. W. Tozer
The thing that sticks out most to me here is this notion of our wanting “to get the power of God into our hands…that it may work for us”. Perhaps he was thinking of the great contrast this makes with Paul’s encouragement in Ephesians 6:10.
The power of God is not intended to be in our hands. We are to find it in our Lord Jesus Christ (think, branch abiding in the vine). This is no small contrast. It is not a mere difference of perspective.
Here is a good, strong and true saying: The power of God travels down the channel of His authority.
When we attempt to carry and exercise the power of God – even subconsciously – we are presuming much. Step back and consider the foolishness of our arrogance and pride.
We are actually presuming that we can be trusted to exercise His power, outside of His authority. We are presuming to have the wisdom, courage and strength – in ourselves – to wield the raw power of the LORD God Almighty, in a way that doesn’t do more harm than good. Explains a lot, doesn’t it.
It has been said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over, while expecting the outcome to change. Doing the wrong thing with more vigor and enthusiasm will only get us to the wrong end quicker.
Isn’t it time we start doing things God’s way?
Humbly yours and forever His,
Rob