September 10, 2019

BIBLE READING: II CORINTHIANS 13

10 Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

As we come to the end of this book, I want us to notice just one phrase that Paul uses in verse 10. Paul said that God had given him a specific power. God had given Paul the power to edify, or to build up others. Paul also mentions that God did not give him the power to destroy others.

One of the best ways for you to be able to tell that you are operating under the power of God is to see whether you are building others up. At any time when you and I are tearing people down and destroying them, that is not a power that God has given. God gives power for us to have a positive impact and influence on others. When you and I look for opportunities to edify or build up others, God will give a special unique power to enable us to do that. If that is your desire, God will empower you to do so.

Unfortunately, many Christians tend to be destructive. Often, they will do that in the name of the Lord. They will act spiritual or give certain spiritual code words to seemingly give them the excuse to tear down someone. Dear friend, God is not in that. God wants us to build others up, but God never wants us to tear others down. Yes, God hates sin, and the way God wants us to combat sin is to build the person up spiritually instead of breaking them down emotionally.

Do you want the power of God today? Well let me tell you how you can enjoy and feel that. Do your best to build others up, and you’ll be surprised how much of God’s power you enjoy.