Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are. That no flesh should glory in His presence (
1 Corinthians 1:25-29 NKJV).
“I just can’t do it.” Have you ever spoken those words when faced with a task that seems too great? I have! Perhaps you’ve been offered a promotion at work, but are afraid you’re not skilled enough. You may have been asked to teach a Sunday School class, but fear you don’t know the Bible well enough. God may have put it on your heart to write a book, but the voice that clamors for your attention says that you’ll fail. Often the thing that God lays out for us to do is bigger than we are.
The good news is, it isn’t at all about our goodness, strength, or wisdom. In fact, the opposite is true. God chooses those who are inadequate in and of themselves so that the ultimate glory goes to Him. You see, when we serve out of our weakness and God’s strength, it is obvious to everyone that the power of the Holy Spirit and not the strength or wisdom of man has accomplished great things.
Each day as you go about your business, acknowledge that you can’t do it, but God can. Then, throw yourself into the arms of Jesus and ask Him to carry you as you do the work He has called you to do. As you begin to see success, don’t forget that it is God who strengthens you, provides the ability to do the work, gives you favor, and opens doors. It isn’t about you, but about the God who deserves all the honor and glory. He is the One who should be acknowledged in the midst of “your” success.
Lord, we give this day to You. Nothing that is before us can be done in our own strength. We pray that You will help us to do everything in an attitude of dependence on You. Help us to look to, wait on, and ask for Your wisdom and strength in every situation we’ll face today. Give us grace, strength, hope, and wisdom as we acknowledge that only You can provide the ability to do what needs to be done. We love and submit to You. Thank You for strengthening us. Amen.
Thought: Use your journal to explore the following: What are you trying to carry on your own? Give it to God! Admit that you can’t do anything on your own and need His help to do His work. Thank Him that with Him by your side, all things are possible. (Note: If you don't like to journal, spend some time in prayer on this topic.)
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