“There’s no way to run [the race God’s marked out for you] without God’s power and provision. If you try to do it out of your own strength, you’ll quickly grow weak. If you try to do it out of your own confidence, you will be humbled. What you’re doing requires dependence on God and the power of the Holy Spirit.”- Kyle Idleman
“So the king asked me, ‘Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.’ I (Nehemiah) was very much afraid, but I said to the king, ‘May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?’ Then I prayed to the God of heaven.”- Nehemiah 2:3-4 (NIV)
As Kyle Idleman continues Chapter 8 of Don’t Give Up, he talks about the second obstacle we all face.
2. The Obstacle of Insufficiency. As Nehemiah thinks about the size, distance, and danger of his challenges, he knows he lacks the human power and provision to deal with these known obstacles. However, Nehemiah retains a powerful conviction. Although he’s not sure what he can do, he believes he must act. Kyle adds:
“Nehemiah knows full well that on paper there is no way for him to run this race. He doesn’t have what it takes. He doesn’t have the position, the power, or the resources. That’s not being negative or fatalistic. It’s the simple truth.”
So, Kyle asks, how does Nehemiah overcome the obstacle of insufficiency? He chooses the only effective action – he prays. In addition, this prayer involves real work and patience. It entails more than a quick activity at a specific time.
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you rely on God’s power and provision? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Roadblocks – a heavenly thumbs down?”
