Two Gifts

The last roses of summer 2018.

And a nugget from Apostle Paul….

I’m constantly puzzled by our inability as Christians to tap into the power that created, holds together, and fuels the universe: The Holy Spirit. We have direct access to it; it lives within us! Why, then, do I so often grow weary? Why do I feel weighted down with burdens? Why does my energy to do his will feel depleted or sometimes even totally empty?

Reading through Colossians for my devotions this morning, I’m challenged by Paul’s admission at the end of chapter one. He says he labors (indeed he did, to the point of landing in prison), struggling with all my energy, which so powerfully works in me. Oops—no, that’s not quite what he says. Paul points out that he struggles with all HIS energy, referring to Christ in the preceding verse.

Could that be where my limitations begin? Am I failing to differentiate between attempting to labor in my energy? Rather than his? I certainly know my supply is meager and limited. His power is as vast as the universe—and unlimited!

God, help me to recognize this stark distinction. Today, may I be like Paul and labor, struggling with all your energy, which so powerfully works in me.