“We . . . practice turning our attention to Jesus within us, learning to draw from his strength in the depth of our being. It’s important that we remember that the strength that prevails is a strength given to us by God. This is not something we conjure up. It’s not gritting our teeth and doubling down.”- John Eldredge
“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his spirit in your inner being.”- Ephesians 3:16 (NIV)
In Chapter 8 (“The Deep Well Inside Us”) of Resilient, John Eldredge stresses the power of God made available to us. However, the author counsels, don’t allow your past experience to restrict your ability to open yourself to God’s power. Certainly, we often find life disappointing. We question why God failed to come through for us.
Therefore, we must allow the Scriptures to open new horizons for us. Otherwise, we remain forever within the confines of our experience. So, what if you could draw upon the glorious energy and power of the Lord, who sustains “all things by his powerful word (Hebrews 1:3).”
Most significantly, the author describes every human being as a deep well. But they seldom draw on these deep places within themselves. Because they tend to live near the surface of their own existence. In addition, John notes, the world’s incessant carnival of distraction and demand serves to keep us in the Shallows.
In conclusion, John underscores that God dwells in your inmost being. Writing in Union with God (1981), Jeanne Guyon explains:
“Your spirit instructs your soul that, since God is more present deep within you . . . He must be sought within. And He must be enjoyed there. . . . Therefore, from the very beginning you find great joy in knowing that your Lord is within you and that you can find Him and enjoy Him in your inmost being.”
Today’s question: When do we find ourselves gritting our teeth and doubling down? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the January Short Meditation, “Show us the way of Jesus”
