Day Eighteen - Power

God's people were on their way back to Jerusalem from captivity. They were bringing with them items of gold and silver to be used in the worship of God in the restored temple. Because the roads were filled with bandits, Ezra feared they might be robbed. Ezra had argued for the right of the people to return to Israel based upon the will and providence of God (v. 22). Consequently, he was ashamed to ask any protection from the king. Realizing that protection ultimately must come from God alone, and being sensitive to the appearance of God's people before the nations, Ezra entreated Heaven for God's power and protection to be with them on their journey.

I am confident that God wants, expects, and deserves our dependence upon Him. God loves to show Himself strong in the midst of our neediness.

Read Colossians 1:4-12

Virtually everything I have focused on in these blogs is covered in this prayer of Paul for the believers in Colossa. Yesterday, I wrote about patience while waiting on God. The wait itself can be a spiritual battle on top of this issue at hand that may have provoked the fast or seeking of God's face. The word "patience" (hupomone) literally suggests "bearing up under a burden or affliction."

So, let's break this prayer down, because it is my prayer for you right now. It seems that ultimate subject or need being expressed to God for the Colossians was for their patient joy, or joyously patience (v. 11) to their spiritual storm that was being thrust upon them by the false teachers that surrounded them. To possess this joy/patience, they were going to need several things from God to make it possible.

Here is the way it flows in my language: "God, your people are burdened. Please, help them as they seek to walk fully pleasing to You, faithful in every good work. Grant them full knowledge of Your will by supplying them wisdom and spiritual understanding. Strengthen them by Your might and glorious power that they may remain patient with full joy that only You can provide."

We discussed the wonderful, Spirit-filled life, wisdom, discernment, knowledge, and joy many many times from the pulpit and these blogs, but not so much power. "Might" (ischus) conveys force of ability under control. "Power" (dunamis) is explosive energy beyond control. We get our English word "dynamite" from this Greek word. Both might and power are available to us. When both are applied by God through us, there is nothing beyond our reach.

Ezra and the Colossians needed God. Don't you? I know I do.


In Christ,
Pastor Todd


DISCLAIMER:
The video below contains the vulgar word "Bulls---". If this will offend you, please do not watch it. I apologize and realize that it may seem completely unnecessary. However, sometimes we have to pick out the bones to enjoy the rest of the fish. I think you will appreciate the content if you overlook the creator's attempt to connect with his audience.