Harriet’s Power

What is the source of your power and strength? Have you identified what pushes you to greatness? Many people gain encouragement from the accomplishments of others, mentors or heroes they have encountered. Recently, I saw the movie Harriet and was reminded of the supernatural power source to which we all have access.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
– Philippians 4:13

Harriet Tubman was a woman of immense bravery, determination and faith in action. When asked how she was able to free so many slaves, her response always included God being with her. Her adeptness was a result of the close relationship she maintained with Him. She trusted that He would guide, protect, strengthen, comfort and provide for her during her amazing feats. Unequivocally, she gave all credit to God as her sole power source.

I have told you these things, so that in Me
you may have [perfect] peace and confidence.

In the world you have tribulation and trials 

and distress and frustration;
but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]!
For I have overcome the world.
[I have deprived it of power to harm you

and have conquered it for you.]
– John  16:33 (Amplified Version)

Harriet inspires me to see the future good despite the current circumstances.  Her life teaches me how to be undaunted in the midst of haters, deceivers, fear and the seemingly impossible.  She exemplifies the supernatural strength it takes to go forward after a setback.  Her extraordinary accomplishments are a result of a very intimate and personal relationship with God.  The best part is…you and I can rely on this power source, too!

Power In The Fiery Furnance

Power In The Fiery FurnaceHave you ever prayed and believed God for something that never showed up? Have you felt like you have been thrown into a fiery furnace of betrayal, financial disaster, grief, anger, frustration or hopelessness? Well, your feelings are not uncommon to Believers. Many of us feel that God should rescue us from evil before it comes. Rescue us from any sickness, heartache, loss, pain or devastation that life brings before we experience it. But when we keep our faith strong and consistent, God has a way of handling situations for His glory and our victory.

If it be so, our God whom we serve
is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace,

and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods,
nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. – Daniel 3:17-18

The three Hebrew men: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego demonstrated the power of assured faith in these scriptures. They completely trusted God no matter how He decided to handle their situation. The king ordered to throw them into a burning, fiery furnace if they did not fall down and worship the golden idol. Despite the harsh death sentence, they chose to have faith in God.  Instead of simply bowing down to worship a worldly idol to save their own lives, they displayed their confidence in God’s power. As the soldiers bound them up for extermination, it is amazing that none of the three men cried out…

“Why is this happening to me?”
“What did I do to deserve this?”
“This is not fair!”

“How am I going to get through this?”
“Where are you God?”
“Help me!”

Instead, they demonstrated the “But if not…” type of faith. (Daniel 3:18)  Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego knew God could save them before going into the furnace, but even if God decided not to, they still trusted and honored Him. Wow, that is powerful faith!  

You can experience that type of faith when facing your fiery furnace. Choose to honor God even when your situation is not turning out like you want. Trust and worship Him even when your prayers are not being answered exactly the way you think they should. Remind yourself that His timing and methods are not like yours, but He will take every bad situation and turn it around for your good. Stand firm in your devotion to God and relinquish the situation over to Him.

You might even confess…

“God is well able to save me from _______________________
and deliver me from __________________________,
but if not, I still honor and love Him! ”

Friend, know that your situation is a priority to God and you are never alone. God sent Jesus to save Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and He sent Jesus especially for you! Although, they went in the fiery furnace, the fire had no effect on them. They walked out alive, without a burn or smell of smoke – they even got promoted! The good news is that no matter what fiery pit you may be thrown in, you will come out – victorious and spotless! Don’t stress yourself out another day over the outcome. Ignite the “but if not…” kind of faith and experience the miraculous power of God over your life!

Steadfast Power

Steadfast Power
Many people in the world today know about God.  Some reverence Him, but may not desire to practice religion or go to church.  Some accept His Son, Jesus, as their Savior, but choose not to walk in love or forgiveness.  Some worship Him, but do not really believe they can live in the power and blessing bestowed upon them.  There are many ways people relate to God and varied emotions on how they feel about Him.  However, God is always the same.

God’s love is steadfast (unwavering, firm and purposeful) towards you.

He is all and everything you need…a Father, protector, creator, redeemer, path maker, healer, sustainer, financier, blessing provider, restorer, comforter, innovator, wisdom revealer and much more!  It is truly amazing to comprehend how much God loves and adores you.  He has made all provisions for you.  He always forgives and does not remember mistakes.  His grace and mercies are new each day.  He never changes, takes a day off, or withholds any good thing from you.  He wants you to be healed, joyful, abundant and victorious!  Always!

How can I be steadfast towards God?

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence
stedfast unto the end; – Hebrews 3:14

Focus on His word and believe with confidence.  Situations and circumstances in life are temporary. Your Heavenly Father wants you to be steadfast in Him regardless of the world around you.   It is never too late for new beginnings with God!  He has a plan for your life that is more elaborate than you can ever imagine.  You must be with Him so He can pour out blessings on you.  No matter what you have done, He is always open for a closer, more intimate relationship with you.  He would love to hear from you!  You are His precious child and representative on earth.  Be steadfast and experience the power of His unwavering love! 

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable,
always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know
that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. – 1 Corinthians 15:58