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Presence and Power over Performance and Potential

Can you remember a time when you didn’t know how to do something that you can now do with your eyes closed (or with only one eye open)? For instance, there was a time when we could not tie our shoes. Our parents had to help as we watched and learned the pattern of steps to tie those shoes on our own. That’s a simple example but it’s relatable to almost everything we learn to do in life. First, we couldn’t, then we could. Another example might be a sin we used to consistently commit before we received Christ. Before the grace and power of the Holy Spirit, we didn’t have the strength to overcome that evil. But thank God we do now!

As we continue to age, this same process of learning and development will continue. Walking and growing with God is a spiritual journey that continues for our entire life. Today, you may play an instrument, participate in a sport, or volunteer somewhere that allows you to use your God-given talents. You are likely growing and getting better, demonstrating potential that may even surprise you at times. That’s great! What can also happen once we become proficient at something is we can begin to feel like it’s us doing it; that it’s us, in our own power making it happen. We stop seeking God as much and our thanksgiving for success in that area can become less and less. Self-reliance, along with the stress and pride it breeds, sets in and we stop seeing the results we used to see or we begin experiencing a lot less joy in that area of our lives.

Galatians 3:3 warns us about this so we can stay ahead of this temptation. Our entire life on this earth is a developmental ground for the Heavenly eternity set before us. God will continue to grow and mature us, even in areas where we feel like we’ve reached our pinnacle. Remember, God’s thoughts are higher than our thoughts and His ways are higher than our ways. So, keep thanking Him and seeking Him for grace to abound in every area of your life— those where you’re aware of your growth opportunities along with those you feel you’ve mastered. Stay curious, open, and grateful—He’s not finished with you yet!

Reflection

1. Reflecting on Galatians 3:3, identify an area in your life where things are going well or you’re performing well, but you notice a decline in seeking God and thanking Him. How can you redirect your focus to acknowledge His role in your success?
2. Dive into Philippians 1:6, where Paul discusses the "good work" within you. What do you believe is the "good work" initiated in your life, and how do you see God continuing this work in your daily experiences?
3. Consider your personal and spiritual growth journey. How can you stay connected with God, seeking His guidance and expressing gratitude, even in areas where you feel proficient or successful?

Amber Thomas-Hutson