What does "striving with all His energy" teach about Christian perseverance? Text in Focus: “Striving with all His energy” (Colossians 1:29) “To this end I also labor, striving with all His energy working powerfully within me.” What Paul Meant by “Striving” • “Labor” (kopiō) = to work to the point of weariness • “Striving” (agōnizomai) = to contend as in an athletic contest • Paul pictures a vigorous, whole-person effort—yet powered by Christ’s own strength Perseverance Requires Genuine Effort • Scripture never excuses laziness (Proverbs 6:6-11) • Philippians 3:13-14—“press on toward the goal” • Hebrews 12:1—“run with endurance” Believers are called to sweat, plan, and push forward in faith Divine Power Makes Our Effort Effective • Philippians 2:12-13—God works in us “to will and to act” • 1 Corinthians 15:10—“I worked harder… yet not I, but the grace of God” • Ephesians 1:19-20—resurrection power is “toward us who believe” Our perseverance rests on the limitless supply flowing from Christ, not our limited reserves A Beautiful Partnership: God’s Power and Our Willing Obedience 1. God supplies the energy 2. We engage in active obedience 3. Result: fruit that endures (John 15:5) Like a lamp plugged into a socket, the believer shines only while connected to the Source Practical Ways to Strive in His Energy Today • Start each task conscious of dependence: “Lord, You empower me” (2 Peter 1:3) • Feed on Scripture; His words impart life (Jeremiah 15:16) • Pray continually; prayer taps the divine reservoir (Ephesians 6:18) • Commit to fellowship; mutual encouragement sparks perseverance (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Serve others; His power often shows up mid-service (1 Peter 4:11) Encouragement for the Weary Runner • Christ’s energy never depletes (Isaiah 40:28-31) • He sympathizes with weakness (Hebrews 4:15-16) • Keep eyes on Jesus, “the author and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:2) Perseverance is possible—because the One within you never tires, never fails, and always finishes what He begins (Philippians 1:6) |
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