What are you to do when there’s not enough

Not enough. Ever feel that way? You don’t have enough time to get your work done. You don’t have enough money to pay the bills. You don’t have enough skill to get the promotion. You don’t have enough patience to raise your kids without losing your temper. You don’t have enough strength to get through the day. There’s just not enough.

The Hebrew word “El” means “to be strong.” It is often used in combination with other words to communicate that God’s strength is unequalled. This applied truth  provides tremendous help for the one struggling with discouragement or self-pity. Meditating upon the strength of God encourages your heart, and moves your attention away from your personal weakness.  Perhaps this is what Paul meant when he said, “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses . . . For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

Dr. C.R. Marsh applies God’s unparalleled strength to his attributes, and comes up with an excellent list for reflection during your prayer time.

• As to his duration, he is the everlasting God (Gen. 21:33).
• As to this power, he is the almighty God (Gen. 17:1).
• As to his exclusiveness, he is the jealous God (Ex. 20:3-5).
• As to his holiness, he is a consuming fire (Deut. 4:24).
• As to his pity, he is a merciful God (Deut. 4:31).
• As to his fidelity, he is a faithful God (Deut. 7:9).
• As to his vitality, he is the living God (Josh. 3:10).
• As to his greatness, he is the awesome God (Neh. 1:5).
• As to his compassion, he is the gracious God (Jonah 4:2)

Taken from All the Divine Names and Titles in the Bible, Herbert Lockyer, p. 8

Choose one of the italicized words, and shape your personal praise to God around that attribute. Then, dwell upon God’s strength in that area throughout the day. As you face challenges, remember to concentrate on God’s strength, not your weakness. You may not be enough, but God is.

PHIL MOSER is the author of the Biblical Strategies series and the developer of 4M Training: a 13-week small group study for men. All of his resources can be found on amazon or at biblicalstrategies.com.

If you’re looking for a resource for your men’s group, consider 4M Training. Mature, master, minister, and mentor in 13 weeks. Click on image below to learn more.