I find myself more often saying I can’t, when asked to do something. It’s more likely due to my age or health limitations. I don’t like to say that but would rather say “I can’t” than try and be embarrassed when I fail or injure myself. Yes, I’m usually being overly cautious because I don’t know exactly what my limits are and I’m not willing to push them to show off. Age brings wisdom and an abundance of caution.
When I shouldn’t be cautious is when JESUS is leading me, because “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Phil 4:13 KJV). I know JESUS can do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Eph 3:20 KJV) and is only limited by my faith. Even when I am doubting my own self, I can rely on JESUS and pray “help thou mine unbelief” (Mark 9:24 KJV).
I still need wisdom but “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov 9:10 KJV) and that kind of fear means to give due respect, not to make me afraid. That should make me open to the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT. Because we are commanded to Love GOD “with all” and “your neighbor as yourself” (Mat 22:37 and 39). He also told us to “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15 KJV) and we must believe that “all these things shall be added unto you” (Mat 6:33 KJV) to enable us to do that.
How do I know it’s GOD telling me to do something and not myself or someone else falsely speaking for GOD? That is where knowing the Bible is helpful because the WORD is GOD and JESUS is the WORD (John 1:1, 14). Study the WORD and you will come to know when He is speaking to you. Whatever He tells you will line up with both the WORD and SPIRIT of GOD. JESUS said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27 KJV).
When JESUS is added to the equation, it changes from “I can’t” to “I can” because JESUS said, “my strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9 KJV).
Wayne Lance – That’s Good News to Share!