Daily Devotion: Complete in Christ Week Six, Day Four

Read: Colossians 1:29

Additional Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:9–10

You Don't Have to Serve in Your Own Strength

Paul says, "I labor for this, striving with his strength that works powerfully in me."

Notice the balance. Paul labored. Paul strived. Paul worked hard. But Paul didn't depend on Paul. He depended on Christ.

That is an important distinction for every servant of God. Sometimes we become exhausted because we are trying to accomplish God's work using our own strength. We think everything depends on us. We have to make it happen. We have to fix everything. We have to carry everyone.

But Paul reminds us that faithful service requires our effort and God's strength. There will be times when you feel inadequate. There will be times when you don't have enough energy. There will be times when you don't know what to say. There will be times when the task seems bigger than your ability. That's when we remember: Christ is at work in us.

Reflect

Where are you currently feeling inadequate or exhausted in your service to Christ?

Are you depending on your strength or His?

Pray

Jesus, I confess that I often try to do Your work in my own strength. Forgive me. Teach me to depend upon You. When I am weak, remind me that You are strong. Give me the strength to faithfully accomplish whatever You have called me to do. Amen.