WORD AND POWER
For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that He has chosen you, because our Gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you
for your sake.
1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 (NIV)
I study the Bible frequently. I know a lot of excellent information. But this passage compels me to do something greater. I also want to live with the power of the Holy Spirit. Notice that the Gospel (Good News) goes forth not simply with words but also with power. Paul repeats this truth in 1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV), For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. I want more of this in my life. The power of God living in me and through me.
The reality is that we need both of these things: word and power. Over the years, I can see times I focused on one rather than the other. I would study and learn but forget about the power of the Holy Spirit to work miracles, and other times I’d ask God to work in mighty ways but leave my Bible unopened.
APPLICATION:
Write the words WORD and POWER on a notecard and put it somewhere you’ll see it this week. Devote time to studying God’s Word. Learn. Read. Seek to understand. Also, spend much time in prayer, asking God to work miracles around you: He’d restore marriages, heal sick friends and family members, and reach out and save people who are lost. Ask God to show you other ways He wants you to apply today’s passage to your life.
PRAYER:
Dear heavenly Father,
Thank You for preserving the Bible over all these years. Thank You for the truth. Thank You also for the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank You that the same Spirit who created the heavens and the earth also lives inside me. Help me live according to Your Word and in the power of Your Spirit today. In Jesus’ name,
Amen.