More Power to You

Today's Verse:

That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; ~Philippians 3:10

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Gun enthusiasts, military people, and law enforcement personnel sometimes speak about the “fire power” of a certain gun or ammunition. Fire power describes the strength and capability of the weapon. When we think of power, we think of an ability to conquer and to overcome. We like to think in terms of something that is a force to be reckoned with. This morning, I would like for us to consider three kinds of power that our God makes available to us. Two of these powers are present and available. One power is a future anticipation.

We see resurrection power.

Paul had a great desire to know the Lord and His resurrection power at work in his life. Resurrection power is power that raised Jesus from the dead. This is power that is essential for overcoming sin and temptation in our life. It is power that enables us to crucify the flesh in its weakness and desires. It is power that gives us strength to move away the boulders that block our path and the restrictions that would impair our service for the Lord. Resurrection power gives life to a situation that looks like it is dying. It is power that gave Paul enablement every day as he was in prison. It enables us to look at our foes and frailties in the eye and to say, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

We see resistance power.

In vv. 1-9, Paul gives us some cautions. He said, “To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.” What is resistance power? First, it is power to resist the urge to be proud and haughty. Pride is a sin that God hates. Pride is thinking that we are somebody when we are nobody. Most men proclaim everyone his own goodness, but a faithful man who can find? Paul had a distinguished resume when it came to his experience. However, he acknowledged that he was nothing. We must have God’s power to resist pride. We need power to resist deception. Paul tells us to beware of dogs, evil workers, and those who desire to mislead us into their traps. The power to resist deception gives us discernment and willpower to say "no." Be careful of following someone else’s cause, movement, or agenda. Don’t let these kinds of people rob you or your joy.

We see redemption power.

This power is in the future. Paul said, “Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.” This speaks of what is known as glorification. In eternity, we shall be delivered from this mortal and corruptible body, and be given a glorified and incorruptible body. This body will be one that does not decay, is immortal, and is sinless like our Lord’s. Fleshly cravings will be removed and our desire is for the Lord and His presence. The aging process, sickness, disease, pain, and heartache will all be ended. Sorrow and sighing will no longer affect us. Redemption power is what we look forward to in eternity.

Be thankful today that you have access to these powers. Such power is from above and gives us the advantage of the Christian life. Make it your desire to know Him and the power of His resurrection. Come to the Lord in surrender and complete reliance, and experience resurrection and resistance power today. Should the Lord come for us today, redemption power is ours for eternity. More power to you!

Have a powerful God Morning!

Bible Reading Schedule: Job 1-4

#Philippians #Power