The dictionary definition of “enable” is to provide with the means or opportunity; to make possible, practical, or easy; or to give legal power, capacity, or sanction to a law. We are all in favor of those things that enable us to accomplish something we desire. What we frequently don’t understand in our efforts to get things done, is where the true source of our power lies.
The Bible has much to say about power and our being enabled as human beings. Our talents and abilities are gifts from God, to be used in doing His work. When we are successful in various aspects of our life, we tend to take sole credit for a job well done. At some point, we may come to realize the important role that others played in bringing about our successes. Finally, we may come to the conclusion that God was a key player in the process.
Several verses in the Bible can be very helpful in understanding how we are able to get things done:
Psalm 62:11, says that power belongs to God. Romans 9:17, tells of God demonstrating His power through people (hardening Pharaoh’s heart). In Ephesians 3:20, we learn that God can do all we think or ask according to the power (the Holy Spirit) that works in us. Philippians 2:13, shows us that it is God who works in us both to will and to do His good pleasure. Philippians 4:13, tells us that we can do all things through Christ who gives us the strength. In Ephesians 3:7, Paul said that he became a minister according to God’s grace and by the effective working of His power. Matthew 19:26, says that with God all things are possible.
We must know the true source of power, acknowledge Him, turn it over to Him, and follow His lead. Ultimately, we need to give God the credit for accomplishing His work through us. We are partners; He is the Great Enabler, and we are simply conduits through which His power flows.
