Being Strong in Grace (Part 2)

The Bible says: 

“You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also,” (II Tim. 2:1-2).

But how do we stay strong in grace? There are some practical instructions from God’s Word to help us accomplish this goal. 

1. It all starts with a word from God or a directive from someone in authority.

This is either a clear call from God or an assignment or directive from someone in authority over you. With every call and assignment comes the ability to perform it – if we don’t shirk back. This God’s divine enablement mentioned in 1 Timothy 1:12:

“And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry…”

When God or a leader in your life asks you to do something, God is not asking you to look to yourself and your strength, knowledge, education, skill, resources, or your ability to do it. Rather, He is asking you to look to Him. Be strong in grace, and don’t shirk back! The Message says it this way in Hebrews 10:38-39:

“But anyone who is right with me thrives on loyal trust; if he cuts and runs, I won’t be very happy. But we’re not quitters who lose out. Oh, no! We’ll stay with it and survive, trusting all the way.”

2. You must guard against comparing yourself with others or becoming intimidated by what you don’t know.

“For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves against themselves, are not wise” (2 Corinthians 10:12).

When I heard about all the management systems, policies and procedures I was required to know in the Director role, they start to make my head swim. But I did not submit to that voice that spoke to my mind, “You will never get this, you dummy”. But neither did I go hide in a hole or ministry silo and act like these things were unimportant. I had to find someone or believe God for someone who had a passion for those things and help me implement it without a personal agenda.

I don’t have to know everything to be a good leader; I just have to be committed to find out or find someone else who knows.

“O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You,” (2 Chronicles 20:12).

3. Believe God for all you need to fulfill your calling and assignment

God will equip you with everything good for doing His will (Hebrews 13:21). He will bring people, money, buildings, and more effective systems. Don’t look to your resources or to other people’s resources. Look to God–He has unlimited supply. Believe Him!

“Come to the waters, and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Yes, come, buy priceless, spiritual wine and milk without money and without price simply for the self-surrender that accepts the blessing!” (Isaiah 55:1 AMP).

4. Find your own voice and walk in the confidence and authority of your call and assignment

See yourself as the best leader in that role and step into it. Humility is agreeing with God and depending on God.

You are the absolute Best teacher those students could possibly have, the best parent, the best spouse, the best _______ because He has both called you and enabled you (1 Timothy 1:12).

Remember, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13).

When you speak, speak as the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:10-11). When you minister, minister from a place of His strength and ability in you, not from a place of deficit and inadequacy. When you place confidence in His ability in you, the anointing will flow out to others and bless them.