Bible Passage: “My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” (1 Corinthians 2:4-5 NIV)
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 4:20; Ephesians 5:18
Recently, I went to cut some wood in my garage, only to have my skill saw go dead. It was ancient, and they aren’t too expensive, so I decided to replace it.
The new one is a beauty! I couldn’t wait to try it out and see how it cut!
When I got home, I quickly read through the manual, set up my wood, put on my safety glasses, and positioned myself. I squeezed the trigger, excited to see how this new saw would far outperform my old one.
Nothing happened.
I checked the safety switch. Nothing. I rechecked the trigger. Nothing. I examined the blade to see if it was correctly installed. Nothing. I even went to the electrical box to see if I’d blown a fuse. Nothing.
The answer turned out to be far more foolish:
I’d forgotten to plug it in.
Without power, the tool was useless. Once plugged in, it worked like a dream.
In today’s verses, the apostle Paul talks about how his words weren’t the exciting part of his ministry. His words apparently weren’t spectacular or impressive. His words were just words.
That sounds strange to us who revere Paul’s words as part of Holy Scripture!
But Paul tells us why:
His ministry was only powerful because the Holy Spirit was with him.
It wasn’t Paul’s wisdom or fancy preaching that changed lives; it was the Holy Spirit’s power at work (1 Corinthians 4:20).
God has given men strength, to be sure, and He’s given us gifts and talents to serve others and glorify Him.
But only the Holy Spirit’s power brings change and transformation to this world. Only the Spirit advances the Kingdom.
Kingdom men understand that we must use our strength and gifts to serve, but we don’t deserve the glory for anything. We submit our efforts into God’s hands, and then He breathes His power into them by the Holy Spirit, and that’s where things change. That’s where the Kingdom expands.
So, by all means, work with all your heart at whatever you’re doing, as if unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23). But also be filled with the Holy Spirit, praying for Him to move through your efforts so that the life-changing power of the Kingdom of Heaven will rest on you.
Prayer: Lord, help me work hard at everything I do, bringing all my strength and best efforts to everything. As I do and submit these things to you, may You breathe the power of Your Holy Spirit in me and through me, that my life would be powerful for You. Amen.
Reflection: What does seeking the Holy Spirit’s power look like in your life? Where can you seek the filling of the Holy Spirit today?
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