Not in Talk but in Power
For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power. (1 Corinthians 4:20)
I Cor. 4:10-20; Acts 4:30
What Is God Saying?
In dealing with the many challenges young churches face, Paul points out this critical fact: Talk is cheap. In Corinth, church members sued each other in civil court (I Cor. 1:11 ), using words to promote themselves and attack others (4:18). Paul says in his letter that he will be there soon (4:19). He will find out what self-serving talk is and what real power is regarding the kingdom.
How Does This Apply To Us?
Love is something we do. Jesus uses the words of Isaiah to drive home the truth that we can say the right things with our lips and still have a heart that is far from God. (Matt. 15:8) God's words to us have great power. In prayer, let us frame our true desires and intent with well-chosen and sincere words. Do we mean what we pray? Would we be willing to walk as we talk, be what we promise, and do what we say? Talk is cheap. Obedience is costly and productive. Listen, then pray. Listen, then obey.
Pray With Me
O God, your word is power. You only have to speak, to act. To listen to your voice is a magnificent privilege. To read your word is among your choicest blessings. In your words, there is power—perfect consistency between your speaking and your doing. You say what you will do, and you will do what you say.
In my life, forgive the idle word that fills some vacuum of insecurity. Forgive the angry word that fills some vacuum of wounded pride. Forgive the boastful word that impatiently fills some vacuum of selfish ambition. I am sorry for smooth words that disguise insincerity and for hasty words that reveal an unsurrendered self. Let me guard all mere talking until my words are consistent with my works, and my works are invested with your power.
Let Your power, the power of love, forgiveness, and hope fill my life. Let the power of the kingdom of God give strength to my hand and wisdom to my words. Let all my speaking and doing, all my talking and walking, all my professing and practicing be worthy of your kingdom. O God, let me never forget that to be a faithful subject of your kingdom, I may work without talking, but I may never speak without working.
In the name of Him who did not merely talk of Calvary, but proved in death the invincible power of love. Amen.
Moving On In The Life of Prayer
Once again, we see the premise of this book shining with clear meaning. Listen to God! His words come with the power to transform, power to heal, power to challenge, power to awaken, power to encourage. Let His living and powerful word guide us into prayer. That's power in the kingdom. That's power for the kingdom. That's talking with God, which results in power from God for His glory, for the blessing of others, and our soul's ultimate good.
