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GOD WITHDRAWS TOO! Monday 24 January

Open Heavens Devotional by Pastor E.A. Adeboye

MEMORIZE: “At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me.” (Dan. 4:36).

READ: Daniel 4:28-36

God has tremendous, unlimited strength. He is stronger than the strongest of men because His weakness is stronger than the peak of man’s strength. Also, according to Isaiah 40:29, God gives strength to the weak. He is the almighty (Gen. 17:1). Being the true source of wisdom and strength, He can withdraw wisdom whenever He likes. For instance, in Daniel 4:28-36, He withdrew wisdom from king Nebuchadnezzar. Immediately the king became like an animal. Nebuchadnezzar’s confession, his restoration and the fact that his understanding had returned to him, is the confirmation that his wisdom was withdrawn by God. In the same way, He can withdraw strength. This was Samson’s tragic experience. In Judges 16:20-21, when it was announced that the enemies were upon him, Samson rose in a bravado, thinking his power was intact. He shook his body but felt light and ordinary. He did not know that the Owner of strength had withdrawn it.

Sometimes, God may not withdraw wisdom but turn it into foolishness, like it happened to Ahithophel (2 Sam 16:23-17:14). At other times, instead of withdrawing His strength, God can disgrace the one who is acknowledge to have strength. A case in point was when Goliath who though was highly reputed for strength was publicly disgraced by the young boy David. From the foregoing, God is warning us: If you are wise, employ it with humility. If you think you are strong, be very careful. If you have special grace to handle uncommon situations, then do it with fear and meekness. This is because God can ridicule the wise and strong who want to sideline Him. He has turned worldly wisdom into foolishness before. To remain relevant, you must remain humble and give God all the glory for your achievements. If you are wise, you will constantly renew your wisdom and strength by worshipping God, giving Him thanks, and using the wisdom and strength He has given you to glorify His name. If you cultivate His friendship, rather than withdraw His grace on your life, He will multiply it. Be wise!

KEY POINT:
Anyone who allows God to withdraw anything from him or her is a bad manager of God’s resources.

Bible in One year: 1 Sam. 17-20

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