God's Power is made perfect in Weakness

 

God's Power is made perfect in Weakness

The Bible reveals a paradox: God's power is perfected in our weaknesses. This challenges the world's view of strength, inviting us to rely on God's power rather than our own.

Jesus embodied this principle. His strength in adversity was remarkable, but His greatest display of power came through His weakness on the cross. This sacrifice brought salvation to humanity.

Key scriptures illustrate this concept:

Mark 14:38 - Watch and pray to avoid temptation, acknowledging the spirit's willingness but the flesh's weakness.
Psalm 119:62 - Rise at midnight to thank God for His laws, seeking guidance and strength in darkness.
Matthew 16:18 - Jesus builds His church on a rock, demonstrating power beyond human limitations.
Isaiah 54:17 - No weapon prevails against God's servants; they are vindicated by Him.
Luke 10:19 - Authority is given to overcome the enemy's power.
James 4:7 - Submit to God and resist the devil.
Deuteronomy 28:7 - Enemies are defeated before God's people.

These scriptures showcase God's power in weakness.

Credit to Keith M. Craddock's family Bible study, introduced by Isaac Craddock.

Meta AI Response: God's Power in Weakness The Bible reveals a paradox: God's power is perfected in our weaknesses. This challenges the world's view of strength, inviting us to rely on God's power rather than our own. Jesus embodied this principle. His strength in adversity was remarkable, but His greatest display of power came through His weakness on the cross. This sacrifice brought salvation to humanity. Key scriptures illustrate this concept: Mark 14:38 - Watch and pray to avoid temptation, acknowledging the spirit's willingness but the flesh's weakness. Psalm 119:62 - Rise at midnight to thank God for His laws, seeking guidance and strength in darkness. Matthew 16:18 - Jesus builds His church on a rock, demonstrating power beyond human limitations. Isaiah 54:17 - No weapon prevails against God's servants; they are vindicated by Him. Luke 10:19 - Authority is given to overcome the enemy's power. James 4:7 - Submit to God and resist the devil. Deuteronomy 28:7 - Enemies are defeated before God's people. These scriptures showcase God's power in weakness. Credit to Keith M. Craddock's family Bible study, introduced by Isaac Cra

Meta AI Response: That's helpful to know. I'll pass on the feedback to improve the user experience. Consider using alternative methods like typing out the text or using a third-party clipboard extension if you need to copy and paste f

Meta AI Response: You're welcome! If you need anything else, feel free to ask

Ask and You Shall Receive

 Ask and You Shall Receive

As believers, we often find ourselves in situations where we need guidance, wisdom, or provision. In those moments, it's essential to remember that God is always willing to provide what we need. The Bible reminds us that we have not because we ask not (James 4:2-3). In this blog, we'll explore some powerful scriptures that encourage us to ask and trust God to provide.

The Importance of Asking

Proverbs 4:7 says, "Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment." Wisdom is the principal thing; it's the foundation upon which we make decisions and navigate life's challenges. James 1:5 reinforces this idea, saying, "If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it."

The Blessings of Righteousness

Proverbs 11:1-12 highlights the blessings that come from living a righteous life. When we live according to God's principles, we can expect:

Honor: "The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him." (v. 1)
Security: "The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness." (v. 3-5)
Prosperity: "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon." (v. 28)

The Power of Humility

Proverbs 13:4 says, "The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied." This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and diligence. When we humble ourselves and work hard, we position ourselves to receive God's blessings.

Conclusion

As we reflect on these scriptures, we're reminded that God is a loving Father who desires to provide for us. He wants us to ask for wisdom, guidance, and provision, trusting that He will supply all our needs. As we ask and seek, let's remember to live righteously, walk humbly, and trust in God's goodness.

Special thanks to Keith M. Craddock for conducting the family Bible study that inspired this blog.

Assistance provided by Meta AI

God's Ways Are Not Our Ways: God's Ways Are BETTER Than Our Ways

 God's Ways Are Not Our Ways: God's Ways Are BETTER Than Our Ways

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9)

Have you ever found yourself questioning God's plan or wondering why things didn't go as expected? It's natural to feel that way, especially when faced with challenges or uncertainties. However, as believers, we must remember that God's ways are not our ways. In fact, His ways are far better than ours.

God's Ways Are Rooted in Love

God's ways are motivated by His unconditional love for us. He desires the best for us, even when we can't see it. His love is not limited by our understanding or finite perspectives. As 1 Corinthians 13:12 says, "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known."

God's Ways Are Filled with Wisdom

God's ways are guided by His infinite wisdom. He sees the beginning, middle, and end of all things. He knows the intricate details of our lives and the lives of those around us. His wisdom is beyond human comprehension, and His ways often defy our logical understanding.

God's Ways Are Filled with Mercy and Grace

God's ways are characterized by mercy and grace. He is slow to anger and abounding in love. Even when we fail or make mistakes, God's ways provide a path for redemption and restoration. As Lamentations 3:22-23 says, "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

God's Ways Are Not Limited by Our Circumstances

God's ways are not restricted by our circumstances or surroundings. He can work miracles in the most impossible situations. He can bring light into darkness, hope into despair, and joy into sorrow. As Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Trusting in God's Ways

As we navigate life's challenges, let us remember that God's ways are not our ways. His ways are better, higher, and more loving than ours. Let us trust in His goodness, wisdom, mercy, and grace. Let us surrender our limited understanding and finite perspectives to His infinite wisdom and love.

As the prophet Isaiah wrote, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." (Isaiah 26:3) May we be people who trust in God's ways, even when we don't understand. May we experience the perfect peace that comes from trusting in His goodness and love.

God is Solid Ground

 God is Solid Ground

In a world filled with uncertainty and chaos, it's easy to feel like the ground beneath us is shaking. But as Christians, we have a promise that God is our solid ground, our rock, our refuge. Let's dive into some powerful scriptures that remind us of God's unwavering presence and stability in our lives.

Staying Awake and Alert

In Revelation 3:2-3, Jesus warns the church in Sardis to "Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent." In a world that's increasingly hostile to our faith, we must stay awake and alert, holding fast to God's truth and promises.

A Place Prepared for Us

In John 14:2-3, Jesus reassures us that He's preparing a place for us in heaven. "My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." This promise gives us hope and security, knowing that our eternal destiny is secure in Christ.

Persevering Through Trials

In Luke 21:9 and Matthew 24:4, 11-14, Jesus warns us about the trials and deception that will come before His return. But He also encourages us to persevere, promising that "he who stands firm to the end will be saved" (Matthew 24:13). We can trust that God is our solid ground, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty.

God's Protection and Guidance

In Psalm 25:20-21, David cries out to God for protection and guidance. "Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you." We can trust that God is our refuge and protector, guiding us through life's challenges.

A Way Out of Temptation

Finally, in 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul reminds us that God is faithful and will provide a way out of temptation. "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." We can trust that God is our solid ground, providing a way out of temptation and guiding us towards victory.

Conclusion

As we navigate life's challenges and uncertainties, let's remember that God is our solid ground. He's our rock, our refuge, and our protector. May these scriptures encourage and strengthen you, reminding you of God's unwavering presence and stability in your life.

Credits:

This blog post was inspired by Keith M. Craddock's leadership in our family Bible study. Meta AI assisted with writing and editing the post.

Lord, Help Me Do Better

 

A family bible study by Keith M. Craddock

"Lord, Help Me Do Better"

Have you ever felt like you're not living up to your full potential? Like you're stuck and can't seem to make progress? The truth is, we all struggle with feelings of inadequacy and frustration at times. But the good news is that God is always willing to help us do better.

Following Jesus Requires Sacrifice

In Luke 9:57-58, we read:

"As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, 'I will follow you wherever you go.' Jesus replied, 'Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.'"

This passage reminds us that following Jesus requires sacrifice. We can't just follow Him when it's convenient or easy; we have to be willing to give up our own desires and plans in order to follow Him.

Serving Two Masters

In Matthew 6:24, we read:

"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."

This verse reminds us that we can't serve two masters. We have to choose between serving God and serving our own desires and interests.

The World is Passing Away

In 1 John 2:17, we read:

"The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever."

This passage reminds us that the world and its desires are temporary, but doing the will of God is eternal. We should focus on living for God, rather than trying to fit in with the world.

Living as Foreigners

In 1 Peter 2:15-17, we read:

"For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor."

This passage reminds us that as Christians, we are living as foreigners in a world that is not our home. We should live in such a way that we honor God and show respect to everyone around us.

Taking Up Our Cross

In Matthew 16:24-25, we read:

"Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.'"

This passage reminds us that following Jesus requires us to take up our cross and deny ourselves. We have to be willing to give up our own desires and plans in order to follow Him.

Spiritual Warfare

In 2 Corinthians 10:3-6, we read:

"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."

This passage reminds us that as Christians, we are in a spiritual battle. We need to use the weapons of spiritual warfare, such as prayer and Scripture, to demolish strongholds and take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Conclusion

Living for God is not always easy, but it's worth it. When we surrender our lives to Him and ask for His help, He will give us the strength and wisdom we need to do better. Let us pray, "Lord, help me do better."

Reflection Questions

What areas of your life do you feel like you're not doing well in?
How can you surrender those areas to God and ask for His help?
What does it mean to you to take up your cross and follow Jesus?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, help us to do better. Give us the strength and wisdom we need to live for You. Help us to surrender our lives to You and to follow You, no matter what the cost. In Jesus' name, Amen