Let’s face it–life can wear us down!
Maybe you’re juggling a demanding job, trying to be present for your wife and kids (or grandkids), and still keeping up with the never-ending to-do list (that deck isn’t going to stain itself).
Some days, you feel like you’re running on fumes. So where do you turn when your tank’s empty?
Here’s the truth we need to hear: there’s spiritual strength available through Christ–real power to carry us through. The Bible doesn’t just hint at it; it shouts it. Let’s dig into three places God’s Word shows us how to tap into it.
1. Prayer and the Power of Christ
In Ephesians 3:14-17, Paul gets on his knees and prays for us–for you and me–that we’d be “strengthened with power through His Spirit in your inner being.” This isn’t some vague, feel-good vibe.
Paul’s talking about the resurrected Christ, the same Jesus who beat death, pouring His strength into us.
Think about that next time you’re up late worrying about a kid who’s drifting or a work project that’s spiraling. You don’t have to muscle through alone–Christ’s power is right there if you’ll ask for it. Paul prayed it for the church; we can pray it for ourselves. “Lord, fill me with Your strength today.” Try it. He’s listening.
2. Strength in Weakness–Yes, Really
Fast forward to 2 Corinthians 12:9-10. Paul’s got this “thorn in the flesh”–some nagging struggle he can’t shake.
Sound familiar? Maybe your thorn is a health scare, a strained marriage, or just the grind of midlife. But here’s the kicker: God tells Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul doesn’t sulk–he owns it. He says he’s content with weaknesses because that’s where Christ’s strength shines. I’ll be honest, that’s tough for us guys. We’re used to fixing things–cars, leaky faucets, you name it. But God says, “Stop striving and lean on Me.” The weaker you feel, the more you’ve got to rely on Him–and that’s where real strength kicks in.
3. Hidden Life, Unshakable Strength
Then there’s Colossians 3:1-4. Paul tells us to “seek the things that are above, where Christ is.” Our life–our real, spiritual life–is “hidden with Christ in God.” Hidden doesn’t mean weak; it means secure, untouchable. Picture this: you’re out mowing the lawn, the neighbor’s waving, everything looks fine on the outside–but inside, you’re wrestling with doubts or exhaustion. Colossians says your strength isn’t in keeping up appearances; it’s in Christ. It’s new every day, waiting for you to grab hold of it. You’re not just a guy with a minivan and a mortgage–you’re a man alive in Christ, with a power the world can’t touch.
Tying It Together
So, brothers, next time you’re feeling beat down–whether it’s a tough talk with your teenager or another long commute–remember this: spiritual strength isn’t something you manufacture. It’s a gift through Christ. Pray for it like Paul did. Embrace your weaknesses, because that’s where God shows up big. And look to Jesus, where your true life is hidden and your strength is renewed. You don’t have to be the toughest guy on the block–Christ’s got that covered.
What’s your go-to when you need strength? Share in the comments–I’d love to hear how this plays out in your life.
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Thank you!
Jeff Hagen
President & Founder
Hill Cities, Inc.