Whose Strength?

        I recently overheard someone say, "Why do people pray to God for strength to get through a crisis when we have all we need within ourselves." Almost at once, the thought came, "Why would people not reach out to God for strength when challenges occur."

        Granted, many individuals may be able to cope with a great deal through their own "smarts".  But why go this way, when we all have an all-powerful Father who loves to help His children in every conceivable circumstance.  And paradoxically, you and I are never stronger than when we are leaning on Him and on the invigorating, sustaining influence of Christ.

        In the New Testament, Paul makes this striking statement:  "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."  (Phil. 4:13)  All things.
Not anyone I've ever run across can top this.  Not relying on divine help is sad, for not only does such a spiritually weakened way of life go against God's will for His children; it would deprive us of utilizing the ncomparable strength Christ imparts.

        I would say to anyone tuning in this blog who is trying to deal with a crisis alone, why live another day this way?  Why--when looking to God as the continuous giver of strength, ability, and intelligence is so comforting?  Depending on our Father, God, is the obedient thing to do.  It glorifies Him.  And in turn, it empowers us to get through crises so much smoother than trying to do so by ourselves.

        Turning to God for strength brings into manifestation the qualities already ours as His spiritual offspring.  The result is increased mental sharpness, more creativity in solving our problems--in short, a greater expression of God's infinite capacities. 

        The Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures points out how natural it is for God's creation to express strength.  "All that God imparts moves in accord with Him, reflecting goodness and power," writes Mary Baker Eddy.  (p. 515)

        Whatever we may face in day-to-day life that calls for a solution, God's power is ever at hand to provide it.  Habitually relying on Him for strength enables us to feel His loving presence more consistently.  And this is so wonderful that we may find ourselves thanking Him for those times that cause us to reach out for divine strength.