In Touch - Apr. 22, 2008

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2008 Apr 22

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

April 22, 2008 - The Power of Christ - Ephesians 3:13-19

Welcome to the In Touch Devotional.

The apostle Paul frequently wrote about the need to rely upon Jesus Christ’s strength. In 2 Corinthians chapter 12:9, he passed on to his readers a promise the Lord had given him. It says “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness”.

Paul was a great Christian leader. In God’s eyes, he was no more deserving of grace than any other believer. You and I can have the same confidence in the Lord’s power as this courageous first-century missionary.

When Paul received Jesus as his Savior, he was adopted as God’s son. Paul had all the privileges that go with being a re-born child. In Acts chapter 2:38, his sins were forgiven. Paul was set apart for the Lord’s service in Galatians 1:15. And John 14:17 says Paul received the Holy Spirit. He was an effective servant because the Spirit would release power into his life whenever God had a purpose for him to fulfill.

Consider Paul’s jail time. The Holy Spirit provided physical and mental stamina so he could withstand imprisonment. At the same time, Philippians 4:18 says He burdened the hearts of other believers to provide for Paul’s material needs.

Most importantly, Philippians 1:13 shows God’s Spirit expanded the apostle’s ministry by giving him the courage to speak of Jesus with his Roman guards.

The apostle relied upon God for strength. He never gave up on his faith. We serve the same all-powerful Lord. We have no excuse for running away from His plan. His Spirit dwells in us; ready to release power when we obey our Father’s call.

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