DECEMBER 20–OTHERS TRUST BECAUSE OF YOU

Like it was said, “I believed; so, I have told it.” We have that same great confidence, so we speak. We know that the God who raised Jesus will bring us through too, and you as well. All this – for and through you – growing more and more to a great celebration that brings glory and honor to God. (2 Corinthians 4:13-15)

                   Your people will be encouraged, and their fears will be calmed, when they can see your steady, consistent confidence in Jesus. Will you keep the assurance of God’s faithfulness in your mind and in front of your people all the time?

                   Paul recalls a verse from Psalms (116:10). In this Psalm, the circumstance was that, “in His great affliction” the writer continued to believe, and therefore continued to speak of God’s glory. The psalm writer says he was changed from the day when adversity had made him despair. Paul begins with reference to this change, saying he too has had this experience. This encourages his friends in Corinth to become new – to see God’s glory and persevere when they are challenged. Ultimately then, through their faith, many other people will come to faith, celebrating and worshipping God. All of this because of one person’s simple, confident belief.

                   Recognize that your actions, because you believe, will be the basis for others to believe in an ever-increasing, geometric progression. The trust of others begins with you.

DECEMBER 11 – FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS

There are different jobs and different ways of working, but it is all God’s work through men and women. Through His Holy Spirit, He gives to each person the understanding needed for their work and their people. (1Corinthians 12:6-7)

                   When you think of Paul’s promise in Philippians 4:19, “My God will make sure you have all you need…” do you think about wisdom, understanding, perspective, and other measures of competence to do your work? “All” means “all,” correct? Was Paul reassuring his friends that God would make sure the funds they sent him would be replenished, or was he showing them that God had brought them to understand, empathize, and experience the joy of partnership with him in his struggles? Maybe it was both!

                   In this passage, Paul clearly thinks of God’s provision broadly. Here, he speaks directly of provision that is given in order that the work can be completed. This is a powerful message to you. With the assurance that you will not run short of what you need to complete the work God wants you to do, your focus can be on the work, and upon the people who need the work to be done. Most human fear is rooted in worries that his promise eliminates.

                   Live confidently, focusing on the vision and values God has given you. Help others to see that He consistently provides for the work he commissions.

DECEMBER 8 – POWERFUL GENTLENESS

The disciples of Jesus did what Jesus instructed; they brought the donkey and its young colt. Then, Jesus sat on their coats atop the colt. A massive crowd gathered, spreading their coats and tree branches on the road before Him. The crowd burst into praise, surrounding Him and shouting, “Oh, save us Son of David! Celebrate the one coming in the Lord’s name! Oh, save us Most High!” (Matthew 21:6-9)

                   Have you ever noticed – those who truly have great authority, strength, and power don’t really need to advertise it? People who wish to be thought powerful, or to be feared, will often flex their muscles to be sure they are noticed and admired by others. Men and women who are focused on the work, and especially those who are intently focusing on the people who will benefit from their work, don’t really have time to pose and flex.

                   People gave Jesus great authority over their lives because they saw evidence of great power and strength in His actions. But, rarely did Scripture record an action where Jesus raised His voice or became aggressive in any way. The power He exhibited was God’s transforming, healing, restoring strength. It flowed through Jesus with only a simple word or a gently touch. You have that power and strength within you as well.

                   Pursue the vision God has given you with the quiet, gentle confidence that comes from knowing your God is in control of your life and the world around you.