Restored Power
Traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to the form of religion but denying its power. Avoid these people! — 2 Timothy 3:4–5
In 1979, as a Christian follower for fourteen years, I awoke to find my world crumbling. I had tried to be a good coach, a good provider, a sharing Christian, a church deacon, and a well-conditioned athlete. But I learned a great lesson that day. Sometimes I can be doing God’s work and not God’s will! I had been trying to do God’s work, but His will was for me to love my wife more.
I turned to my Bible and immediately turned to the verse above, 2 Timothy 3:1–5. I knew this was written for me. Immediately I read Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in order to know Jesus and His words. I said, “If I was an apostle with Jesus in His time—what would I have thought?”
I was with Him in John 9:1–7 when He restored sight to a blind man. I was with Him in Luke 8:43–48 at the temple courtyard, when the woman with a bleeding condition touched His garment and was made whole. I was with Him in John 11:1–44 when He raised Lazarus from the dead.
I told Jesus that if he could restore sight to the blind, heal the sick, and raise Lazarus from the dead, He could restore my life—and He did. A new journey with Jesus began as I focused on His power and not mine. I fall many times—even today. But I promised Him I would never quit trying.
1. Do you feel you are doing God’s work here on earth?
2. What is God’s will for you today?
Extra Reading: Luke 8:43–48; John 9:1–7; 11:1–44; 2 Timothy 3:1–5
Dear Jesus, thank You for loving me in spite of my faults. Your power is all I need. Today use me to love others as You loved me—unconditionally. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.