Powerlessness
Scripture:
John 15:5
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
Reflection:
Today I choose to fast from the wound of powerlessness.
We have all experienced situations that we couldn’t anticipate, didn’t want and couldn’t escape. Powerlessness is the feeling that arises in those moments. When that feeling arises we have a choice - accept that this is a situation beyond our control or fight to try to regain some sense of power and control.
Although accepting our limitations in unforeseen circumstances is difficult and often unsettling, doing so makes space for us to recognize that while we are powerless, God remains all-powerful. Fighting to gain power through our own strength and strategy may achieve short-term results in some cases, but it also leaves us cut off from the source of true power and strength. As we begin to trust God more deeply, we can more easily resist the temptation to use our bodies or the bodies of others to gain false power.
Questions for Personal Reflection:
When do I feel most powerless?
What is my typical response to feeling powerless?
Prayer:
Share with God those things in your life that make you feel powerless. Be honest with God about how feeling powerless may have led to broken relationships with others and with God. Ask God to help you remain in Christ and trust that His power is sufficient for you.
These devotions have been adapted from “Lenten Healing: 40 Days to Set You Free from Sin” by Ken Kniepmann.
