Source of Power

Bible Reading: Romans 8:5-14

“Can I skip my Bible study group tonight?” asked Ethan as he cleared the table. “I didn’t have time to do my lesson this week, and Pastor Reynolds really doesn’t like it when that happens.” Ethan set a stack of plates in the sink. “I’ve been thinking about quitting anyway.”

“Not a good idea,” said Mom as she turned on the radio. She clicked the power button a couple of times, then sighed. “I wanted to listen to music while I clean up the kitchen, but this radio isn’t working.”

When Ethan walked over to look at the radio, he noticed the cord lying on the counter. “Here’s your problem, Mom,” he said with a laugh. “You need power to run this thing.” He plugged the radio into the outlet.

“Oops!” Mom laughed too. “I must have forgotten to plug it back in after I used it in the living room.” The music came on, but there was also a lot of static. Mom moved the radio to different positions until she found a spot where it played without the annoying crackling sounds. Then she looked at Ethan. “I don’t want you to become like this radio,” she said. “That’s why I don’t want you to quit your Bible study.”

“What do you mean?” asked Ethan.

“Well,” said Mom, “like the radio, Christians have a power source too—God. Only by being mentally plugged into our power source—the Holy Spirit living in us—can we live by God’s power and witness for Him.”

“You mean if I drop out of my Bible study group, I won’t be plugged in?” asked Ethan. “That sounds like I wouldn’t be saved anymore!”

“Whoa!” said Mom. “That’s not true at all. Once you’re a Christian, you’ll always be plugged in—the Holy Spirit lives in you and gives you power. But quitting your Bible study could make it harder for you to hear what God is saying over everything else out there. The world’s messages are like static and can keep you from hearing God clearly. Your Bible study is one way to help keep a clear line to Him so you can obey Him and follow His will for your life.”

Ethan nodded as Mom moved the radio again to avoid more static. “Okay,” he said, “I’ll go.” – Lyndel F. Walker

How About You?

Did you know that, if you’re a Christian, God is your power source? Perhaps you know Jesus but still depend on your own strength to say no to temptations or tell others about God. Don’t try to live the Christian life on your own—the Holy Spirit is there to help you! Depend on Him to give you the desire to do what’s right and the power to put it into action.

Today’s Key Verse:
Philippians 2:13 (NLT) For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

Today’s Key Thought:

God gives power to live for Him