The Military Trains Us, God Recreates UsÀpẹrẹ

His Grace is Sufficient

By Kelli Baker

The past four days we’ve discussed how our identity in Christ shapes our behaviors and habits. We talked about the tension between the desire to do what is right and the will to do what is wrong. Now because of Jesus, we learned that in him we have the power to make the right decisions because we are no longer held captive by our sinful desires. We are clothed by the Holy Spirit. In Christ, we are set free!

When we have the Spirit, we know it’s a grace-given gift of liberation and freedom. The fact remains that we are still human, living in a sinful world. There will be temptations all around us. However, because we have the Spirit we know that we will always have a way out of any temptation, as Paul says in 1 Corinthians 10:13, we just need to call on the Lord.

We used to do weekly maintenance on our military vehicles when I was stationed at Fort Bragg. Every Monday at least one person searched for ways to get out of going to the motor pool. Appointment slips were required to skip the duties for the day. However, with God, we’re not required to bring him an appointment slip when we’re tempted, he just wants our hearts. We can trust that he will be there with us when we need a way out.

Sometimes we fall into sin and feel guilt and shame about not being able to resist. There's grace for that. Christ tells Paul that his grace is sufficient and his power is made perfect in weakness. Paul responds by boasting about his weakness so the power of Christ can rest upon him. Rather than sulk because we can’t stop sinning in our strength, we can rest because by God’s strength it is possible to resist sin. Sin is a weakness, and the enemy will use it against us. However, we have the power of Christ within us. Our Savior gives us the power to overcome our weaknesses if we lean on him. I am forever grateful for his Spirit and grace that allows me to live out my identity as a daughter of the King.

Is there a sin you struggle with? If you’ve repented and asked for forgiveness from God, he has forgiven you. Know that in your weakness Christ is your strength. Call on him today and surrender. Ask him to help you with your weakness.

We hope this Plan encourages you. Explore other resources at Planting Roots - Strength to Thrive Military Life.