“All these things are against me” (Genesis 42:36).
Many people desire to have power, but few are willing to go through the necessary process to receive it. How is this power produced? Once, while observing a large power generator, we asked a local worker: “How does this generate electricity?” He answered simply: “With rotation and friction. The friction creates the electric current.” This explanation also applies to spiritual life. When God wants to bring more power to us, He allows more friction, more pressure. However, many reject this process and try to escape the pressure, missing the opportunity to be strengthened.
The real question is: What does God want from us so that we may obtain power, peace, and happiness? God wants us to listen to Him, and listening to God means obeying what He has revealed through His prophets and His Son Jesus. Obedience generates friction, for many around us are bothered when they see someone living according to God’s Law. The world rejects obedience because it prefers the easier path, the path of accommodation. However, it is this friction that produces spiritual power. The more we submit to God’s will, the more He strengthens us to face any circumstance.
If we are willing to face this opposition, then strength and blessings will flow as electricity flows from the generator. The friction of obedience shapes us, strengthens us, and enables us to live a life full of the Lord. God has not called us to a life of comfort, but to a life of faithfulness, where His power is manifested in those who, no matter the cost, choose to obey. -Adapted from A. B. Simpson. Until tomorrow, if the Lord allows us.
Pray with me: Dear God, it is true that many times we want power without being willing to go through the necessary process to receive it. But I understand that it is You who allow the pressures to strengthen us, shape us, and enable us to live according to Your will. Help me not to flee from this process, but to face it with courage and perseverance.
My Father, today I ask You to teach me to truly listen to You, not just with my ears, but with the sincere obedience of my heart. I know that following Your commandments can generate friction, because the world rejects obedience and prefers the path of accommodation. But I want to remain firm, even in the face of opposition. Give me strength to continue following Your Law, no matter the cost, for I know that it is on this path that I find true peace, happiness, and Your power working in my life.
Oh, Most Holy God, I adore You and praise You because You strengthen those who choose to obey You. Thank You because the friction of obedience is not in vain, but generates spiritual power and brings us closer to You. May I never fear attacks and mockery because of obedience, but may my focus be to please my Father and Jesus. May my life reflect Your faithfulness, and may I persevere to the end. Your beloved Son is my eternal Prince and Savior. Your powerful Law teaches me to walk in justice and righteousness. Your commandments are my source of wisdom. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
