“Ministry without prayer is the highest form of arrogance.”
I have this quote framed and sitting on my desk. I’ve decided I also need it written on my hand, taped to my computer, and stamped on my forehead.
Because in a world where every best-selling book is telling me to be self-confident, self-reliant, and self-sufficient, it’s easy to forget that the Bible preaches a different message.
On my own, I am incapable of breaking chains of bondage. I am unable to heal the broken. I certainly don’t have the power to set captives free. And the further I dive into a self-help book, the further I am getting from the truth of God’s Word. I can only minister to someone when I recognize and acknowledge that they don’t need me—they need God.
One of my favorite verses right now is Psalm 5:11:
“But let them all be glad, those who turn aside to hide themselves in You. May they keep shouting for joy, forever! Overshadow them in Your presence as they sing and rejoice. Then every lover of Your name will burst forth with endless joy.”
God can use me best when I am willing to hide myself in Him. When I remember that the weight of healing broken people doesn’t rest on my shoulders. He has never once asked me to be perfect or powerful, only willing and available.
And as I spend time with Him in prayer, His words replace my own. As I sing and rejoice in Him, He overshadows my faults and shortcomings with His presence. Then—in His presence—every lover of His name will burst forth with endless joy.
Because God alone can redeem, renew, and restore.
Grace Waves 
We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us! Not I, but for Him!
LikeLike