Energy: Divine Strength for Purposeful Living

The joy of the Lord is my strength (Neh 8:10). Paul declared, "I can only do my work effectively because God's mighty energy is at work within me" (Col 1:29). Understanding God's heart for humanity enables us to confidently pray for the energizing of the Holy Spirit to accomplish His specific call on our lives.

Spiritual Energy and Divine Enablement

Goals provide motivation and energy with enthusiasm being released as projects and activities are undertaken with zeal. With stamina and passion, life is much more enjoyable through increasing self-confidence as goals are set, worked at and achieved. Override the desire to quit and maintain the momentum to accomplish through faith and hard work.

We need positive mental attitudes and confession, vibrant faith and a belief that what we are doing is beneficial to humanity and will bear fruit for eternity. A goal to achieve provides the drive to push beyond our comfort zone to attempt what we consider is required. Stand on the truth of Scripture, "My heart and my flesh may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and portion forever...The Lord is my strength..." (Ps 73:26, 118:14).

As we wait on God He revitalises our strength, as natural human stamina diminishes especially through aging (Isa 40:29-31). God's comforting words to Paul were, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Cor 12:9,10). Thereafter, he depended on divine enablement, saying when he was weak God's power was more than sufficient. Divine power shows up best when we admit our lack and in humility turn to Christ (Mt 11:28).

Sustaining Power through Prayer

Paul prayed for the believers that out of God's glorious riches they would be strengthened with power through His Spirit in their being (Eph 3:16; Col 1:11). We are encouraged to give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord as we "Consider Christ who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart" (1 Cor 15:58; Heb 12:3).

Sometimes we can be involved in too many projects or activities (all which may be worthwhile) but produce very little results to show for the energy outlaid. A better approach may be to focus on fewer things, enabling more concentrated focus with less distractions or conflicting demands.

He gives us energy to accomplish His will (Col 1:28-29). Paul's declaration, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phil 4:13), reminds us that divine empowerment is available for every task God calls us to. Alongside spiritual vitality, we must steward our physical well-being through proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest, recognizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19-20).

Fear, uncertainty, worry, bitterness, guilt, unforgiveness, stress and other negative emotions or thoughts can sap one's energy as does lack of adequate food, being physically unfit, insufficient sleep and strained relationships with God and man (Ps 31:10, 32:4).

Keep going by drawing on inner, God-given strength

Deal with these self-focused, negative and life draining aspects so you can face each day with optimism and hope in God. Our capacity for work increases by freeing up positive energy as unnecessary and non-productive activities or thought patterns that drain our physical or emotional reserves are eliminated.

Biblical Energy versus New Age Beliefs

It is important to distinguish between biblical energy and New Age concepts of force or energy. New Age teachings often describe an impersonal "life force" or "universal energy" that can be manipulated through techniques, visualization, or alignment with cosmic vibrations. This perspective treats energy as an autonomous power separate from the Creator

In contrast, biblical energy flows from a personal God who is the source of all life and strength. The energizing of the Holy Spirit is not a technique to be mastered but a relationship to be cultivated. Divine power is granted according to God's wisdom and purposes, not human manipulation or self-effort. As Jesus taught, "Apart from me you can do nothing" (Jn 15:5), not because we lack cosmic energy, but because true spiritual power comes from abiding in Him.

Draw from the right source

While New Age practices may promise empowerment through tapping into universal forces, Scripture points us to dependence on Christ. The same resurrection power that raised Jesus from heaven dwells in believers (Eph 1:19-20), yet this power operates within the bounds of God's sovereign will and character. We are energized not by accessing impersonal forces, but by surrendering to the Holy Spirit who empowers us for God's glory.

Reflection and Application:

What goals or projects energise you most, and how can you align them with God's purpose?
Are there negative emotions or thought patterns draining your energy that need to be addressed?
In what areas of life do you need to rely more on divine enablement rather than your own strength?
How can you better focus your energy on fewer, more impactful activities?