The Place of Powerlessness

So...we're not in a strong blogging culture here at PR.  That's OK.  Its not required to get into heaven.  :)

Nevertheless, I was struck by a comment that came at the close of our gathering last Wednesday and wanted to throw it out there.  The subject of feeling "overwhelmed" by issues related to justice and mercy came up after our time of prayer.  The comment was made that perhaps God brings us to that place so we can experience our inability to change the situation.  Then we are open to the work God wants us to do--the work He is already doing.

I thought of the disciples and the feeding of the five thousand.  The text clearly shows that Jesus had a plan all along.  But he threw it to the disciples to see how they would respond.

They were overwhelmed.  "But Jesus...three months wages would barely give each one a bite..."

Then Jesus did what he was planning all along.  A miracle.

And when we look throughout Scripture, we find God leading His people to a place of overwhelming impossibilities in order to prepare them for His miraculous plan.  Think of the Red Sea, Jericho, Gideon, Esther, Mary...and the list goes on.

The next time you feel overwhelmed by the circumstances in which God has placed you, embrace the impossible and join God in His miraculous work.  I'd love for you to share the results with me.  I'll even help you pick up the leftovers.