Led by His Spiritনমুনা

One of the challenges Californians have faced in recent years is summer power shortages. On hot days we may be asked not to use appliances during peak demand times or to set the thermostat higher so the air conditioners don’t have to draw as much power. If voluntary cutbacks don’t do enough to lighten the load, cities sometimes experience “brownouts” where the electricity is still on, but the voltage is reduced. The lights aren’t as bright because they are not receiving full power. Other times there are “blackouts” where the power goes out completely. For as long as that lasts, users aren’t able to do anything that requires electricity. During power shortages, people are reminded of just how valuable electricity is.

The Christian life cannot be lived without God’s power. No matter how hard we try, our own strength, knowledge, wisdom, and effort are doomed to failure. Thankfully we do not have to rely on an old or out-of-date source of power. We have the continuing presence of the Holy Spirit, just as Jesus promised. “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost comes upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Our problem is not a lack of supply of power, but our failure to surrender to the Holy Spirit and seek to serve in His power rather than our own. God’s power is essential to doing God’s work.