God’s Power or Our Power

God’s Power or Our Power
Saturday, November 30, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

Ephesians 6:10–12

Almost anyone who has accomplished anything great in their lives is tempted to think that they are responsible for it. Nebuchadnezzar, absolute ruler of the mightiest empire in the world fell victim to this temptation. “The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:30). Sometimes that tendency is the result of us thinking that our accomplishments are greater than they really are. No matter the cause, it is always wrong.

We cannot overcome the enemy in our strength. He is a far greater and more powerful foe than we can deal with. But we do not have to rely on our own strength. We have the power of God available to us. The thing that keeps many people from living in that power is their pride. When we claim credit for ourselves, we forfeit God’s power and are left with our own. We must learn the lessons of humility if we want true and lasting victories. D. L. Moody said, “Moses spent forty years thinking he was somebody; forty years learning he was nobody; and forty years discovering what God can do with a nobody.” God never needs our help to get anything done. A word from Him could make or break entire worlds. He lets us be part of His plan, but we need Him, not the reverse.
Today's Growth Principle:
Without the strength and power of God in our lives, we are helpless to accomplish anything of value.