Devotional


“… walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called.” -Ephesians 4:1

   Sometimes the realization of our own inadequacies can bring overwhelming discouragement. We are saddened by our weaknesses and inabilities. We despair wondering how God would ever use us in this world and why. Yet, we must take heart dear Christians because we are only half-way to the place where we need to be. Yes, “intellectually” we understand we are inadequate in and of ourselves, and must wait until that day of future perfection. But have we embraced or welcomed our inadequacies, now, as the theme in our lives that shines forth the capabilities of God and the structure of His new kingdom? Have we thought upon them tenderly? Do we see how His glory emits unobscured brilliance through our cracked clay jars of human frailty? I think not. It is the conflict between Spirit and flesh that causes confusion. Our mind says it is good to be found lacking, yet our flesh says I must rise up and fight. The victory however lies in receiving the blows that the cross of Christ represents and valuing it as success. 
   Let us think upon this together. Was it not the much awaited Christ who was looked upon by his own, and found inadequate as Messiah? An assertive and able leader riding on a lofty war horse was Israel’s anticipation. But instead a gentle and humble man of carpenter status arrived upon a mild foal. It was the manner of our Lord that was found inadequate by man, not His might or power – many marveled at His many miracles. If He had called the angels they would have arrived at once in marvelous procession. However, in the greatest act of strength of all time He subjected Himself to be crucified in weakness "For he was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of God..." (2 Corinthians 13:4). His way was meek and therefore found wanting by the world's standards. And now we must look intently to this rock from which we were hewn. We must stop striving for the aptitude and competence that the world applauds. It only ushers in more of the same. Standout as a beacon and remember what manner of spirit you are from. Be liberated by your inadequacies to lean on the Father’s strength. Purpose this day to walk surely by the power of God, yet lowly and gently in the humility of Christ’s steps “… walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness….”(Ephesians 4:1)

By Paula Masters
Based on Pastor Tullian Tchividjian's sermon:
God's New Society