As we enjoyed some overdue rain in California this week, I was reminded of God’s power. Likewise, as I watched a crowdsourcing campaign raise more than double its original goal to help a friend with medical expenses, I was reminded of God’s power.

Job talks of big, splashy reminders of God’s power: creating the sky and earth, day and night, both shaking the foundations of heaven and calming the sea, but the last line of his speech is the most remarkable.

These are just the beginning of all that he does,
    merely a whisper of his power.
    Who, then, can comprehend the thunder of his power?     

Job 26:14

Job says, “Those things aren’t even difficult for God! He didn’t even break a sweat. They’re only the tiniest hint of his power! Just imagine what it would be like if God really flexed his muscles!”

Of all the remarkable ways I’ve seen God at work this week, the most striking is attending an old friend’s installation to the elder board. I’ve known him for over 20 years now, from when we were both angsty teenagers to the (mostly) mature adults we’ve become. He is now a great choice to be a spiritual leader. Our long history gives me perspective to understand just how much Jesus has worked in his life since he became a Christ follower as a young adult. I can see the fruit of the Holy Spirit in his life and I’m reminded of God’s great power.

See, if we really want to see God’s power at work, we ought not look at flashy outward stuff (though it does cause me to stand in awe of him). Instead, if we really want to see his power, we ought to look at the redeemed heart.

As I’ve fought to change my life and behavior simply by sheer force of will, I’ve learned the hard way that it’s not that simple. Like Paul, “I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.” I’ve had to come to the end of trying harder and realize that changing myself is beyond my strength. Thank you, Lord, that it isn’t beyond yours.

Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 7:24,25

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of seeing the depth of your power this week in so many ways. May we depend on it and celebrate it as you continue to do the deep inner work in your followers’ lives.