How can we rely on God's power to face challenges in our community? Grounding Our Confidence: Colossians 1:11 “being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have full endurance and patience, and joyfully” Recognizing the Source of Our Strength • We rely on “His glorious might,” not our own resources • Ephesians 6:10 — “be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” • 2 Corinthians 12:9 — His power shines through our weakness. • Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” Practical Ways to Draw on God’s Power for Community Challenges • Consistent prayer • Acts 4:31 shows how prayer emboldened believers to speak truth. • Immersing ourselves in Scripture • Romans 10:17 — faith grows as we hear the Word. • Worship that centers hearts on God’s greatness • Nehemiah 8:10 — “the joy of the LORD is your strength.” • Fellowship and mutual support • Galatians 6:2 — “Carry one another’s burdens”; 1 Thessalonians 5:11. • Serving others in tangible ways • Matthew 5:16 — our good works point neighbors to the Father. Cultivating Endurance and Patience • James 1:2-4 — trials mature us when we meet them with faith. • Romans 12:12 — “patient in affliction, persistent in prayer.” • Remember that endurance is not passive; it’s sustained, Spirit-empowered faithfulness. Joy in the Midst of Trials • Colossians 1:11 links strength with “joyfully.” • 1 Peter 4:13 — rejoice in sharing Christ’s sufferings; glory is coming. • Joy is evidence that we trust God’s sovereignty even when circumstances are hard. Living It Out Together • Encourage one another daily with Scripture and testimonies of God’s faithfulness. • Meet practical needs—food drives, tutoring, visiting the lonely—so Christ’s love is seen. • Stand for truth with humility and courage, knowing we are “strengthened with all power.” • Keep thanking God; gratitude keeps our focus on His sufficiency rather than our limits. God’s limitless power equips us to face every community challenge with endurance, patience, and contagious joy. |
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