Power Within

Isaiah 40:29

There are days when being weary, weak and worn out starts to win out . . . and, giving in, giving up or giving out seems to be the only way.

We face challenges everyday.  Some are small and some are staggering.

As we face these, some say we should be “committed to the cause”.

As God looks at us, He says we should be “surrendered to the Savior”.

There’s a dividing difference between commitment and surrender.

Commitment is dependent on my determination, my dedication and my drive.  It’s me getting up.

Surrender is relinquishing my rights, my responsibilities and my resources.  It’s me giving in.

Commitment means I’m doing the work.  Surrender means He’s doing the work in me.

Commitment says, “No matter what, I can.”  Surrender says, “No matter what, I can’t.”

Commitment relies on strength.  Surrender rests in weakness.

Commitment alone is lacking.  Surrendering my commitment to God is lasting.

A. W. Tozer writes, “The reason why many are still troubled, still seeking, still making little forward progress is because they haven’t yet come to the end of themselves. We’re still trying to give orders, and interfering with God’s work within us.”

Isaiah understands the efforts and the emptiness of our own interference.  He instruct us that God is there for those who are worn out and He is there for those who are weak.

Renewed Strength For The Weary.  Some have been in battle so long that their determination has been depleted.  It may be hard to grasp, but this is exactly where God wants us.  A few verses later, Isaiah reminds us, “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.” (Is 40:31 NIV)  Our God comes along side to renew and refresh when all strength is gone.  Paul encourages us, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” (2 Cor 4:16 ESV)

Surrender your weariness to His renewing strength.

New Strength For The Weak.  Some never engaged in the battle because they have no strength.  Fear or failure have paralyzed many into escaping, instead of engaging.  Paul writes, “For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.” (2 Tim 1:7 HCSB)  If you are powerless, God will give you power.  The apostle writes to the Christ followers in Phillipi, “I can do all things through Christ who empowers me.” (Phil 4:13)

Surrender your weakness to His new strength.

There are times when we don’t know what to do, we don’t know what to say, we don’t know where to go or we don’t know what to think . . . I’ve been there (what am I saying . . . I’m there now).

Tommy Walker writes the following lyrics,

All to Jesus, we surrender.  Let go and let God.