Experiencing God's Presence #357

Mighty God . . .

Isaiah 9:6

Jesus is the ultimate big brother. He can intimidate the bullies in our lives, if we’ll let Him. He’s wise, too, so He doesn’t go rushing off into every battle we think we have a right to win, but He does stand against our enemies and overcome hindrances that stand in the way of our fulfilling His purposes for our lives. He is the exact representation of the all-powerful God.

But He doesn’t seem like it, does He? Whether as a baby in a manger or a criminal on a cross, He doesn’t look the part of Mighty God. God declared Himself a mighty Savior in Scripture and proved His power again and again. He delivered His people using plagues, parted waters, a path of provision through the wilderness, and a Promised Land. Then He sent Jesus as His perfect image bearer, and we saw not the thunderous power from heaven but the humility and tenderness of God in Him. But that’s by design. The glory is somewhat obscured until His second coming. Only those who believe that this compassionate Jesus portrays God’s heart on earth can experience the Jesus of glory who reigns in heaven.

You have to adjust your vision to see the Presence of God in Jesus. He still does miracles and demonstrates power, but often only if you know God’s heart well enough to see Jesus where you would least expect to see Him. You’re more likely to experience His Presence if you can look past appearances, refuse to dismiss a solution because it looks too humble or unlikely, and get over any assumptions about how He works or who He works with. To know Jesus as your Mighty God, expect the unexpected. Then expect Him to show Himself strong.

Jesus, I need a mighty Savior. I need You to show Yourself as Mighty God—whatever You want that to look like in my life. Open my eyes to see You wherever You are and in whomever You choose to use.

From the book