“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” Ephesians 3:20
On the day of Pentecost, when the Spirit of God was poured out “upon all flesh,” there was the fulfillment of the promise of the Savior: “…and ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you.” (Acts 1:8) Why was it necessary for the Holy Spirit to be poured out specifically to communicate the power of God to the disciples? It was because of what God had called them to do. They were henceforth to be witnesses “unto Him” from Jerusalem to the uttermost parts of the earth. In the Old Testament there are many singular examples of individuals who, when the Spirit of God came upon them, or anointed them, were greatly strengthened to overcome difficult situations, and personal battles. From the day of Pentecost to this present moment, that “outpouring” has occured by virtue of the church’s oneness with Christ, and every believer being IN Him. However, the experience of that power with regard to its appropriation or reception is dependent upon a knowledge of this “gift” and provision by the Father, but also, of the necessity of seeking it, to receive it from God. If there would be the experience of it, there must be the conscious need of it, and the cry of the heart in faith for it. One writer put it like this: Blessed be God who pours the power into us when we need it. The power of Jesus Christ, His very blessed power and strength, is ours to receive if we are believing Him for it.
How important is this power? Can it be measured? The first aspect of the answer to these questions is seen by the world being turned upside down by the disciples after Pentecost. The Gospel was preached far and wide, and not only were the Jews greatly blessed by the manifest power of this message, but the Gentiles also, even unto the uttermost part of the earth at that time. The “Spreading Flame” of the Spirit of God was revealed in the power of the Spirit.
The second aspect of the answer to the question of God’s power being important is found in Paul’s writings. He declares that Christ will dwell in the heart by faith, and in doing so, will do the wonderful thing, that which is “exceeding abundantly above” all that we ask or think. However, this will only be so “…according to the power that worketh in us.” (Eph. 3:20) Paul writes to the brethren at Colosse, that if they are to walk worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God, then they must be “…strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.” (Col. 1:11) Also, with regard to the edification of believers, one towards another, Paul would write concerning his speaking and preaching, that it would be, “….in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” (1 Cor. 2:4) Why did he say this, and why is the matter of the power of God so very essential in witness and edification. Paul answers the question by declaring, “…that your faith should NOT stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” (1 Cor. 2:5)
In the context of spiritual warfar, and the Christian warrior facing the invisible enemy in the evil day, Paul commands, “Finanlly, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Eph. 6:11) It takes strength and power to put on the whole armour of God. It takes power and strength to stand against “principalities, powers, might and dominion,” the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Eph. 612) The believer, whether as a servant or a soldier, is called upon to live by the power of God, daily overcoming the enemy.
Dear Father, Make us consistent overcomers. In Jesus’ name, Amen.