Scripture Reading Colossians 1:29 (KJV)
29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Philippians 4:13
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Devotional
Many believers think, “I’m too weak, too shy, too old, too young, too broken to serve God.” The sermon reminded us: God’s call is bigger than our natural ability on purpose. He never intended us to serve in our own strength.
Paul said he labors and strives—but “according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” Paul gave maximum effort, but he knew it was God’s power making that effort effective. A weaker man, trusting a weaker source, would have collapsed under what Paul endured. But Paul depended on the strength of the One who lives in him.
Philippians 4:13 is not a slogan for personal ambition; it is a confession of dependence. “I can” only because “Christ…strengtheneth me.” The story of the father carrying both the child and the heavy book reminds us: it was never our job to carry the load alone. When we say, “Father, I can’t,” He answers, “But I can.”
Reflection
- Where do I feel most inadequate in serving God—sharing my faith, forgiving others, leading at church, praying out loud, or something else?
- Have I been using my weakness as an excuse not to serve, instead of as a reason to depend on God’s strength?
- Do I really believe Christ’s strength is enough for what He’s called me to do?
Prayer
Father, I confess I am weak and often afraid. I admit I cannot serve You faithfully in my own strength. Thank You that Christ lives in me and that His power works mightily through me. Teach me to rely on Your strength, not my own, in every act of service. Use even my weakness to show Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Action
Choose one area where you’ve been saying “I can’t” in service to God (witnessing, volunteering, praying with someone, etc.). Today, pray specifically for Christ’s strength in that area, then take one concrete step in faith—trusting His power, not your comfort.
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