"…but also in power…"

I think sometimes we forget the power part.  I know I do.

 

1 Thessalonians 1:5(NKJV)

For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.

 

One of the things I wrestle with is balancing relying on God and going out and developing and executing my plan.  On the one hand I want to rely on God for His direction.  I want to make sure my plans align with His will.  On the other hand God still needs us to go out and take action, do the work

 

So how do we balance the two sides of this equation?

 

For me this Scripture helps.  Scripture came to us in word and power.  Here is how I apply that to this situation.  I pray for guidance as I develop and execute my plan.  I pray that God helps me develop a plan that aligns with His will for my life.

 

Once I've done that then I can "power" forward with positive expectation that my planning and execution are being guided by God.  I don't need to stop and pray over every situation or decision. 

 

Does that make sense?

 

Then as long as I stay in the Word and pray consistently God can guide and correct my course.  The key take away for me here though is to execute with power.  To me that means moving forward strongly in complete faith, not timidly, hoping it works out. 

 

Always remembering that the power comes from God, not our selves.