Livin’ On His Strength
I’ll tell you what, friend! You come on up here to this ol’ front porch. Why, you’ve done plum just come strollin’ across a quiet country yard where the grass is whisperin’ secrets, and the lil’ fireflies are holdin’ their own lil’ twinkle light talent show. Now, settle yourself right down in that ol’ rocker that creaks louder than an ol’ bullfrog complainin’ about bedtime. Look yonder at that plump lil’ ol’ hedgehog toddlin’ along the fence line like it’s inspectin’ the property for the county. If that sight don’t git to nudgin’ a lil’ ol’ smile out of you, it sho’-nuff’ reminds us that God knows how to tuck joy right into the simplest corners of our day long before we even realize He’s doin’ it.
The Holy Spirit’s power just ain’t no kind of far off mystery. Ephesians 1:13 tells us, “His Spirit indwells us the moment we believe.” But how do we actually experience that power in daily life? First, we acknowledge our need. We may be real smart, capable, or strong, but spiritually we’re about as powerless as a sleepy lil’ ol’ barn cat tryin’ to chase after a feisty lil’ ol’ rooster. We can’t be livin’ out God’s will all on our own.
Second, we’ve gotta surrender completely. That there plum means we gotta be givin’ the Holy Spirit full authority over every corner of life. Not just the churchy parts, but the job, the money, the family, and even the folks that show up as hard lessons carryin’ a purse. Psalm 143:10 says, “Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.”
And here’s where the promise gets sweeter than warm cornbread. Acts 1:8 says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” Friend, that there means the very strength you are longin’ for is already sittin’ right inside you like a hidden well waitin’ to be drawn from. You ain’t goin’ around beggin for somethin’ that God plum forgot to give. You’re learnin’ how to tap into what He’s already placed in you.
And if you ever wonder whether the Holy Spirit really guides you in the everyday parts of life, Nehemiah 9:20 settles it sayin’, “You gave Your good Spirit to instruct them.” Friend, that there means God’s Spirit ain’t just present, He’s teachin’, nudgin’, remindin’, and instructin’ you in ways you may not even notice yet. He’s the One whisperin’ wisdom when your thoughts feel mighty tangled, the One steadyin’ your steps when your confidence gits to wobblin’, and the One pointin’ you toward God’s will when your own ideas start to wanderin’ off like a curious ol’ farm goat.
Third, we’ve gotta exercise our faith. Not just agreein’ with God but trustin’ Him enough to step forward. Job 36:15 reminds us, “He delivers those that suffer. He speaks to them in their affliction.” And Psalm 25:5 says, “Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior.” When you step out in faith, He provides exactly what you need.
Don’t just be memorizin’ these steps. You’ve gotta be livin’ ‘em. Whisper often, “I cannot, but God can.” His plans are for your good and His glory.
Father, teach me to rely on Your Spirit. Help me surrender fully, trust boldly, and walk closely with You. Fill me with Your power so my life reflects Your goodness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Alright now, friend, as you tote this truth into your daily journey, let God’s Spirit steady you like a river stone holdin’ mighty firm under rushin’ water. Let His guidance be risin’ up in you like the aroma of warm, fresh-baked bread saturatin’ a busy kitchen. Let His comfort be settlin’ over you like a soft, warm quilt on a cool evenin’. And remember, when you let the Holy Spirit lead, you’re walkin’ in a strength that never fades, never falters, and never fails to change your life from the inside out.
With joy,
Gwen
