How can we apply God's "divine power" in overcoming daily challenges? Setting the Scene “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” — 2 Peter 1:3 Understanding “Divine Power” • The power is already “given,” not earned • It covers “everything we need,” not merely the spiritual but all of life • It is accessed “through the knowledge of Him,” a relationship, not a formula • This power reflects His “glory and excellence,” so it never contradicts His character Other lenses on the same truth: • Ephesians 1:19-20 — the same resurrection power works “toward us who believe” • Philippians 4:13 — strength “through Christ” for every circumstance • 2 Timothy 1:7 — a Spirit of “power, love, and self-control,” not fear Getting Connected: Knowing Him Progress in power flows from intimacy with the Lord. • Immerse in Scripture daily; He reveals Himself page by page • Speak with Him continually; conversation cultivates trust • Recall His faithfulness; remembering fuels confidence for today • Gather with believers; shared knowledge amplifies insight Everyday Practices that Release His Power 1. Stand on Promises • Identify a specific promise for the day (e.g., Isaiah 41:10; Romans 8:37) • Speak it aloud and align choices with it 2. Walk in the Spirit • Galatians 5:16 — “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Yield moment-by-moment; invite His guidance before decisions 3. Cultivate Virtue • 2 Peter 1:5-7 lists faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly affection, love • Add these qualities intentionally; they clear channels for His power 4. Pray with Expectation • James 5:16-18 shows “effective prayer” tapping divine energy • Pray specifically, thanking God in advance for what aligns with His will 5. Obey Promptly • John 14:21 — love proves itself through obedience, and obedience invites manifest presence • Act quickly on what Scripture or Spirit impresses 6. Resist in His Strength • Ephesians 6:10-11 — “be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power… put on the full armor” • Use truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word as daily armor Living It Out Together • Share testimonies of God’s enabling power; they encourage faith • Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2); His power often flows through mutual support • Serve with the gifts He supplies (1 Peter 4:10-11); dependence on Him multiplies effectiveness Encouragement for the Road God’s power is not a distant resource but a present reality. Each step of reliance—knowing Him, standing on promises, walking in the Spirit, praying expectantly, obeying promptly—turns what could be ordinary days into demonstrations of His glory and excellence. |