E-votional - Confidence
April 1, 2003

Verse:

“And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Matthew 28:20 (NRSV)

Thought:

   It was anything but an April Fools gag. The words offered more than a promise of care and protection, and while it is a powerful commission, something else was passed to the disciples that fateful day. With the Great Commission came great confidence. Yes, confidence is a gift, it is the result of the grace in our life.

   Hear the Good News, with life being as challenging as it is each day, our esteem and confidence could suffer or even be destroyed, but through Christ and His grace imparted to us, we have been empowered to reach out into the world with confidence. For one reason or another our confidence becomes stifled as we grow. Each of us is born with a level of confidence, yet why is it that one has more than another? The reasons certainly vary, but empowerment seems to be a factor. Are we empowered to be the person we are called to be, to do what we are called to do? Through Christ, we certainly are. The question is then, who have we given our power and authority to? Through Christ, we can do all things. Our situations, while difficult, are never impossible. Claim the grace imparted to you from God. Claim the strength and confidence offered to you.

Prayer: 

   Gracious God, I forget who I am. I struggle to grasp an understanding of what it is You would have me do and what You would have me be. My struggle continues as I encounter challenges in my life. Free me of doubt and help me to claim this grace You offer to me. Help me empower others in everything I do. Thank You for all you have done in my life and all you will continue to do, for I come to You through Jesus Christ, my Lord, my Savior! Amen.