Years ago I had the privilege of leading worship for kids Sunday School and one of the greatest joys was watching the passion these little ones would express as they sang out words of praise they believed with all their hearts. They would raise their hands and flex their arms as they called out, “My God is so BIG, so strong and so mighty, there’s nothing my God cannot do!” They had the faith of children and the idea of a “big” God sounded both exciting and secure. Sadly many adults would have a hard time saying the same. At what point does faith and the reality of God’s bigness begin to wane?
One of the biggest errors we are tempted to make as followers of Christ is limiting God. Because, as human beings we are finite, we have a hard time grasping the concept that God is infinite. So we put parameters around his promises and set up boundaries that bind us to a particular way of thinking. Before you feel offended, let me just say, this is natural. Human beings experience hurt and confusion which cause them to doubt. We thrive on consistency, boundaries and rules. But God is anything but natural. He is supernatural and longs for us to perceive and embrace his mighty power, his majesty, his grandeur! When we embrace God for who he actually is, the possibilities are limitless!
In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul tells us to eagerly desire the gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. Verse 3 says, “But the one who prophesies speaks for people for their strengthening, encouragement, and comfort.” Earlier in chapter 1 he confirms the ongoing presence and power of spiritual gifts throughout a believer’s life. Verse 7 says, “Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.” Spiritual gifts are not one-and-done. The Spirit continues to gift believers when, in faith, they ask! Why wouldn’t a loving father who desires that his children have everything they could possibly need continue to provide gifts that will allow them to strengthen, encourage, and comfort their brothers and sisters? Luke 11:13 clearly states, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
What are you asking the Lord for today? Could it be a gift you see in others that has impacted your own life? Could it be prophecy; the ability to speak forth strength, encouragement, and comfort into the lives of others? Our God is BIG and he is able to do immeasurably beyond what we ask or imagine! Don’t allow your human finiteness to limit you from experiencing your great God!
Lynette Fuson
Care & Counseling Director