God’s Power

Stop.

Spend five minutes meditating on God’s strength. Close your eyes, think about what God’s power means to you, and let it give you encouragement.

Listen.

May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from [God’s] glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience. – Colossians 1:11

Reflect.

We often think of God’s strength as one of irrefutable force, works of wonder, and mighty deeds. God’s strength gets stuff done. However, this verse reminds us that God’s power isn’t only for times of action. God’s power and strength also work in us when it is time to wait, to endure, to be patient. 

One of the main themes of the season of Advent is waiting. This time is a gift, allowing us to slow down and see where God works among us in the slow times, the quiet times, the times of lengthening shadows. The only reason we can wait is because of the strength of God at work in us. Without this time of waiting, we would not recognize the gift it can bring.  

Instead of wondering why God isn’t acting, or demanding that things happen faster, or insisting that something must be done for it to count, consider God’s strength at work in times where you must wait. It might feel like nothing is happening, but if you watch, might you see something very powerful at work in your heart and your world?

Pray.

I trust in the power of your work, God, whether things are happening or I am waiting. Make my Advent season rich with the wonders of your strength as I am patient and watchful. Amen.

Carry On.

Try to memorize this Bible verse. Instead of pulling out your phone to distract yourself, recite this verse to yourself whenever you’re waiting for something. Consider how your focus changes.