Through the Power of the Spirit

Romans 15:17-19

“Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God. 18 I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— 19 by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God…”

Of all the New Testament saints, Paul probably had the most reasons to speak highly of himself and his accomplishments. Yet, in every case, Paul defers to the work of Christ in and through him. He remained humble. In fact, the Bible says he learned to glory in his weaknesses knowing that it was in those very weaknesses that Christ would show Himself strong (see 2 Corinthians 12:9-11).

Paul only speaks of “what Christ has accomplished through me”, not what Paul himself has done. Yet, notice how he expands upon this statement when he mentions “the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God.”

Paul’s life was an example to the Gentiles that inspired them to obey God. Our lives ought to be examples to all those with whom we come into contact that would inspire them to want what they see in us. Yet, like Paul, we must realize it is not us, but the Holy Spirit in us that empowers our walk in Christ.

Let’s glory only in Christ Jesus for what He is doing by and through His Holy Spirit in us.

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Tell the Father how grateful you are for Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit in your life. Think about how the Spirit has positively influenced others through you, and give Him the credit.

Dive Deeper: Study Romans 15; 2 Corinthians 12:9-11.