"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God" -John 1:12
What is real power? During this time of the year it seems that buying as much as you can to give to whomever you want would be a real powerful lifestyle! Some would say power is all about popularity or the latest sports car. Others would say it's money or possessions.
Did you ever realize that the things we strive for and consider to be real power are temporary? Business could be great today, but bankrupt tomorrow. Cars rust and break down. A bad snowstorm or flood takes away our ability to enjoy a lot of our coveted gadgets and possessions. One nasty rumor can slice our popularity vote in a matter of a few hours.
Where can we find power that lasts? Have you heard the saying, "It's not what you know, but who you know?" Real power is found in knowing the Lord Jesus Christ as your own personal Savior.
The little babe who was laid in a manger on the very first Christmas morning over 2000 years ago had, and has at this moment, the fullness of the God living in Him bodily (Colossians 2:9)! This almighty, all-powerful and all-knowing God, who is no longer a baby, but a risen Savior-seated at God's right hand-is interested in you! He wants to give you eternal life. This is real power because if God is with you, it won't matter who or what is against you (Romans 8:31–39).
The riches that He offers the believer are priceless and are really what the whole world is looking for-but they are looking in the wrong direction.
Is this you? Power isn't found in being popular, because popularity rises and falls.
Power is found in knowing the One who knows all about you, still loves you and will receive you, if you come to Him. He will never leave you or forsake you, no matter what changes happen in your life. His Word is totally trustworthy and can be used daily to give you victory in the most challenging circumstances (Philippians 4:13). He promises to work everything out for your good, if you simply trust Him with your whole life and choose to walk with Him as you follow what He says in the Bible. This is real confidence, security and power! No one in the world can buy this, but God is willing to give you this standing because of His grace. (Grace: freely giving us what we do not deserve and can't earn.)
There is one catch. You have to be willing to admit you need a Savior. You have to be willing to hit rock bottom and stop seeking to please everyone else. It's not about what the world says is powerful, it's about what God says!
All have sinned, all have disobeyed God. This is why Jesus Christ was born on the first Christmas morning and this is why He died on the first Good Friday-so that He could pay your sin penalty at the cross, and you wouldn't have to spend eternity being judged, separate from God forever.
Real power is found in having a relationship with Jesus Christ as your Savior. As a child of God, living with His power in you, only then can you live with no fear of meeting God. Instead, you will have new confidence and purpose to face life daily with His unlimited grace to give help in your time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
May God bless you this Christmas with His power. Come to Him just as you are-lost, guilty, and helpless. The only people who Jesus receives and blesses with His power, are sinners!
But to as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become sons of God (John 1:12).
Becky Kew shares Good News at Sandy Bay First Nation, Manitoba, Canada. BeckyKew@outlook.com
