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Title: The Power of Confession
Category: Encouraging
Blog Entry: Sometimes we set ourselves up for defeat by letting adversity dictate our decisions. Christianity would've lost a great leader and teacher if the apostle Paul had stopped serving the Lord because of his difficulties. Paul endured a shipwreck, persecution, beatings, and poverty. Instead, Paul made a bold proclamation from prison. In Philippians chapter 4:13, Paul says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Paul prepared himself to perform any service or face any trial for the Lord. His willingness was rooted in the belief that God would always be faithful. He could've regarded prior difficulties as a run of bad luck and chosen to give up. Instead, the apostle viewed his experiences as proof that the Father would provide what was required in any circumstance. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:12, he had learned to be content in every situation. He says God always met his physical, spiritual, and emotional needs at the right moment. The apostle tackled each new challenge with the confidence that Christ would equip him to do the job well. Too often people ignore a new opportunity that feels unfamiliar. Never having tried it, they anticipate being unable to meet expectations. But the Lord's call to a fresh area of service means He's about to do good work through His child. If a believer is willing to serve God in any capacity, he'll make an impact for the kingdom. Remember, Paul's proclamation is also ours. We can do all things through Christ, who's our strength.