# "Empowered for Greatness:

How Knowing God Equips Us for Divine Exploits"

## 1. Knowing the Lord.

In a world brimming with chaos and uncertainty, the quest for strength and purpose becomes more vital than ever. The stories of old, of David's mighty men, and the promises of Scripture offer us a blueprint for living a life marked by divine exploits.

As we embark on this journey together through the realms of knowing the Lord, being strong, and doing exploits, let's uncover the profound depth of what it truly means to stand in the power of the Almighty. Our exploration may very well ignite the next great move of God, demonstrating His power in ways we've only dared to dream.

## 1. Knowing the Lord.

To know the Lord is to enter a relationship that transcends mere acquaintance. It's about depth, a profound understanding cultivated through years of fellowship, conversations in the quiet places, and the tumultuous ones.

We're called to engrave His Word upon our hearts, to recognize the whisper of His Spirit amidst the cacophony of life, and to discern His ways—the principles upon which the universe operates.

Imagine, for a moment, the privilege Moses had. Psalm 103:7 tells us, "He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel." Moses knew God so intimately that he understood His ways, not just His acts.

We, too, are invited into this deep acquaintance. When Jeremiah speaks in 9:24 about understanding and knowing the Lord who delights in kindness, justice, and righteousness, it's a call to us. It's about pressing on to acknowledge Him, as Hosea urges, finding Him as reliable as the sunrise and as refreshing as the spring rains.

This depth of knowing isn't just for the sake of knowledge. John 8:31 reminds us that if we hold to Jesus' teaching, truly living it out, we'll know the truth that sets us free. It's an invitation to a life of freedom and purpose, with the promise of eternal life through knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ, as declared in John 17:3.

Our journey of knowing God is ongoing, a constant growing in the knowledge of Him, as Colossians 1:10 suggests. It's about being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might, for great endurance, patience, and, ultimately, to know Christ and the power of His resurrection, as Paul yearns in Philippians 3:10.

## 2. Being Strong.

To be strong in the Lord is to embrace a boldness that does not waver in the face of adversity. It is about prevailing against weakness, being courageous and resolute through every challenge. Our strength is not just of the body, but of the spirit and soul—encompassing a strong mind, will, and emotions.

The Scriptures are replete with exhortations to strength. Proverbs 24:5 equates wisdom with great power, and knowledge with increased strength. In the heat of battle, the call, "Be strong and quit yourselves like men" from 1 Samuel 4:9, is not just for soldiers in physical combat but for us, as we face our daily battles. The Lord's selection of us to build a temple—a sanctuary in 1 Chronicles 28:10—comes with the charge to be strong and do the work.

This call to strength is not just about earthly endeavours. Isaiah 35:4 reassures those with fearful hearts to be strong and not fear, promising divine retribution and salvation. It's a strength not born of ourselves but of God, who grants us power, love, and a sound mind, as 2 Timothy 1:7 assures.

Ephesians 3:16 encapsulates this beautifully, highlighting the divine empowerment of our inner being by His Spirit. This strength is not merely for personal edification but is purposed for the kingdom, to stand firm and do the work of God, even amidst challenges.

## 3. Doing Exploits.

The life of a believer, grounded in the knowledge of God and bolstered by His strength, is marked by exploits. These are not just acts of human will but demonstrations of divine power. To do exploits is to:

• overcome where others fail,
• break through barriers,
• offer answers to the seekers,
• faith to the doubters,
• vision to the spiritually blind.

It's about embodying the compassion, passion, and conviction of our faith in every action.

John 14:12 doesn't mince words. It promises that anyone with faith in Jesus will do what He has been doing and even greater things. This isn't a call to grandiosity but to a life so aligned with God that our actions can't help but glorify the Father. It's about letting our light shine, as Matthew 5:16 urges, so brightly that others can't help but see God in us.

The invitation to be fishers of men, to pull others from the fire

## 2. Being Strong.

### Embracing Courage in Adversity.

In the journey of faith, being strong is not an option—it's a necessity. The world around us can often feel like a battlefield, filled with challenges that test our resolve and strength. Yet, it's in these moments that our true courage is forged. The Scriptures remind us, through the wise words of Proverbs 24:5, that a wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases strength.

This wisdom and knowledge come from our deep relationship with God, allowing us to stand firm and prevail, even when the odds are against us. By embracing this divine wisdom, we're not just surviving; we're thriving amidst adversity, showcasing a boldness that inspires those around us.

### Strength Beyond the Physical.

Our strength in the Lord transcends mere physical capability—it encompasses our spirit and soul. It's about having a strong mind, will, and emotions, fortified by our unwavering trust in God. This holistic strength is beautifully encapsulated in 2 Timothy 1:7, which reassures us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.

These words serve as a beacon, guiding us through life's storms, and reminding us that our strength is not our own, but is drawn from the infinite well of God's power. It is this divine strength that enables us to be courageous, firm, and resolute, regardless of the challenges we face.

### The Call to Build and Be Strong.

The call to be strong is intricately linked with our divine purpose—to build a sanctuary for the Lord, as highlighted in 1 Chronicles 28:10. This isn't just about constructing physical structures; it's about building lives, communities, and a legacy that honours God.

Being strong, therefore, becomes a foundational aspect of our calling. It's about doing the work set before us with diligence, integrity, and unwavering faith. This strength is not just for the monumental tasks but also for the everyday acts of kindness, love, and justice that stitch the fabric of God's kingdom on Earth.

### Strengthened for the Kingdom's Work.

Ultimately, our strength is purposed for more than just personal growth—it's meant for the kingdom's work. Ephesians 3:16 speaks to this divine empowerment, highlighting that we are strengthened with might by God's Spirit in our inner being. This strength is our armour in the battle against apathy, despair, and darkness.

It propels us to stand firm, to do the work of God with conviction, and to be unwavering in our pursuit of justice and righteousness. In doing so, we become beacons of hope, demonstrating that through God, we can overcome any obstacle, achieve the impossible, and do the exploits that mark us as His people in this world.

## 3. Doing Exploits.

In our walk with God, doing exploits becomes the tangible expression of our faith and relationship with Him. It's where the rubber meets the road, where our daily lives become a living testimony to the power and presence of God in us.

These exploits are not reserved for the spiritual elite but are accessible to every believer who dares to take God at His word and step out in faith. Whether it's offering a word of encouragement that sparks hope in a despairing heart, providing for someone in need, or praying for the sick and seeing them recover, each act of faith is an exploit that glorifies God.

- **Overcoming Challenges: ** Just as David and his mighty men faced formidable enemies yet triumphed, we, too, are called to overcome the challenges that life throws our way. This could mean standing firm in faith when circumstances seem insurmountable, choosing to forgive when it feels impossible, or persisting in prayer for a breakthrough that seems just out of reach.

- **Spiritual Breakthroughs: ** Sometimes, doing exploits involves breaking through in areas where others have been blocked. This might look like pioneering a ministry in an unreached area, bringing a fresh word of revelation to a stale situation, or simply being the first in your family to break generational curses and walk in spiritual freedom.

- **Impactful Acts of Service: ** Our acts of service, inspired by the Holy Spirit, can leave a lasting impact on those around us. Whether it's mentoring a young believer, serving in community outreach, or planting a church, these are all exploits that extend the kingdom of God.

Doing exploits in the name of the Lord is not a call to seek personal glory but to manifest God's love and power to a world in desperate need of both. It's about living a life so aligned with His purposes that our actions naturally flow from an overflow of our relationship with Him.

As we step out to do exploits, let's remember, it's not by our might nor by our power, but by His Spirit (Zechariah 4:6). Let this be our motivation and our guide as we seek to demonstrate God's power and love in tangible, life-changing ways.

## 4. Where is the Next Move of God?

As we stand on the precipice of history, looking out over the landscapes of our communities, our nations, and our world, we find ourselves asking, "Where is the next move of God?" The answer, though complex in its divine orchestration, begins with a simple call to each of us.

It's a call to readiness, a readiness that starts in the secret places of knowing God, being strengthened by Him, and stepping out to do exploits in His name. The fields are ripe for harvest, but the labourers are few. Our readiness could very well be the beacon that heralds the next great awakening.

1. **In the Hearts of the Seekers**: Often, the next move of God is birthed in the hearts of those who seek Him relentlessly. Just as revival fires in history were sparked by the fervent prayers and radical obedience of a few, so too might the next move of God begin in the quiet yearnings of our hearts. It's in our collective hunger for more of Him that we might find the seeds of the next spiritual awakening.

2. **Among the Marginalized**: Jesus had a way of showing up in the places and among the people society had pushed to the edges. The next move of God might very well be among those who are marginalized, where the gospel's power to uplift, heal, and restore is most vividly demonstrated. Our call? To be His hands and feet, bringing the message of hope and transformation to the least, the last, and the lost.

3. **Through Unity and Reconciliation**: In a world torn by division, the church stands as a testament to the power of unity in Christ. The next move of God might be one that breaks down walls, bridges divides, and showcases the reconciling power of the gospel. It's in our unity that the world will see the love of Christ—a love powerful enough to transform hearts and societies.

4. **Via Digital and Social Frontiers**: We live in an unprecedented era of connectivity. The next move of God could very well leap across digital and social media platforms, transcending geographical boundaries and language barriers. Our command to go into all the world and preach the gospel is as relevant today as it ever was; the methods, however, are expanding in exciting new ways. Our engagement in these platforms could catalyse a global move of God, bringing the message of Jesus to the ends of the earth.

The next move of God is not confined to a single location, people group, or method. It's as boundless as His love, as vast as His kingdom, and as varied as His children. Our role? To stay close to His heart, ready and willing to be part of whatever He does next. In our seeking, serving, loving, and reaching out, we join the great mosaic of His kingdom work, eager to see His power move in us and through us.

## 5. Demonstrating God's Power.

In this journey of deepening our relationship with the Almighty, we've ventured together through the transformative processes of knowing the Lord, being imbued with strength, and stepping out to do exploits in His name.

Our exploration has not only illuminated the path to a life of divine purpose but has also beckoned us towards the inevitable next move of God. As we stand on the precipice of this divine wave, the call to demonstrate God's power in our lives becomes both a privilege and a profound responsibility.

The essence of demonstrating God's power lies not in the grandeur of our actions, but in the authenticity of our walk with Him. It's about living out the truths we've unearthed in the quiet places with God, letting them resonate through our words, actions, and lives. When we embody the love, justice, and righteousness He delights in, our very existence becomes a testament to His transformative power.

As we navigate the complexities and challenges of our times, the world around us yearns for a glimpse of the divine. Our call to be strong, to know our God, and to do exploits is not for our benefit alone but serves as a beacon of hope and a source of strength to those still searching. By demonstrating God's power through our lives, we not only fulfil our divine mandate but also extend an invitation to others to embark on this journey of knowing and experiencing God in all His fullness.

In conclusion, our exploration through knowing the Lord, being strong, and doing exploits culminates in the ultimate call to demonstrate God's power. This is not a journey we undertake alone but as a collective, united in our purpose and passion for the Kingdom.

As we move forward, may our lives reflect the depth of our relationship with God, the strength He bestows, and the exploits He empowers us to accomplish. Together, let's be the catalysts for the next great move of God, demonstrating His power and love in a world that desperately needs both.

## FAQ.

### Frequently Asked Questions.

**1. What does it mean to know the Lord? **

To know the Lord means to develop a deep, personal relationship with God, where you understand His character, embrace His teachings, and recognize His presence in all aspects of life. It's about growing in intimacy through daily fellowship and committing to live according to His Word, allowing His truth to set you free and guide your path.

**2. How can I be strong in the Lord? **

Being strong in the Lord involves drawing on the divine strength He provides to face life's challenges with courage and resilience. It means relying not on your own power but on the strength that comes from faith in God, fortified by wisdom, knowledge, and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This strength enables us to stand firm, overcome adversity, and carry out our God-given purposes with boldness.

**3. What are considered exploits in the context of this blog post? **

Exploits are significant, impactful actions that demonstrate God's power and love through us. These are not everyday achievements but rather divine interventions and miracles that occur when we align ourselves with God's will. Exploits can involve overcoming obstacles that seem insurmountable, bringing hope to the hopeless, and being a light in the darkness—ultimately, actions that glorify God and draw people closer to Him.

**4. Where is the next move of God? **

The next move of God begins within us as individuals who know the Lord deeply, draw strength from Him, and are willing to carry out His works on earth. It's not confined to a single location or moment but is unfolding wherever believers are moving in obedience to God's call, demonstrating His power, love, and mercy to the world. It's an ongoing, collective awakening to the purpose and power we have in Christ.

**5. How can we demonstrate God's power in today's world? **

We demonstrate God's power by living out our faith authentically and courageously, doing exploits that reflect His character and love. This includes sharing the Gospel, serving others selflessly, praying for the miraculous, and standing for justice and righteousness. It means being vessels through which His power is made manifest, showing the world that God is alive, active, and able to change lives and circumstances.

Written by Pastor Graeme Foster

Apostolic Praise Centre

Apostolic Prophetic Training network

Aptm.podia.com