It’s how God works

“I can do all things in him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

God works best in our impossibles.

How many times have you felt an urging to do something and thought, “no way”? I can honestly say I’ve been there more times than I can count. There are too many examples to even begin to discuss.

As I’ve said before, I am an introvert. Shy was always an understatement when describing how I was around others. I just couldn’t talk to strangers or in front of crowds. It was inconceivable. Then, God asked me to start and lead a Catholic Men’s Fellowship group. “No way, God, I CAN’T do that.” He moved pieces and step by step led me through the process. Within a month our first CMF meeting took place with just a few men joining. Now, 15 years later, we have up to 20 men in our meetings (conducted virtually through Covid). God took my impossible and showed HIS power.

Fast forward a few years, I was asked to make a ‘speech’ at our annual Pittsburgh CMF Gathering. “Ha! Yea, right!” Speak in front of 1,000 men? No way! But, God guided me through. I wrote my words and prepared. Minutes before I stepped on stage, feeling overwhelmed and nearly ill, I asked a priest to give me a blessing that I didn’t screw this up and make God or CMF look bad. The priest said, “through Christ, you can do the impossible. He is the God of the impossible.” I stepped to the podium and gave my speech. I don’t remember much, it was a blur, but many came up to me afterwards and thanked me. I found a great consolation that day as several shared their story.

Last example, my family walked through dark days a decade ago. God showed Himself in many ways. Then, He put on my heart to write down all the events and publish them in a book. “Ha! No way, I’m no author.” I stacked the deck and prayed, “if this is Your idea, You have to tell me in words I can’t miss.” I knew I was clear, what are the odds God would speak? Then, He did. “I Knew His Voice” I knew this was the title. So I wrote it and watched as God moved mountains to publish it. He is still moving mountains as the Marian Press is considering publishing a new edition. Find the current printing at these links on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

When God calls you to some task don’t run and hide. Jesus faced His moment of trepidation in the Garden as well. He was asked to do something monumental. Respond as our Lord did that night, “not My Will but Yours be done.” Luke 22:42 Then, do it.

When we are weakest and most unable to do something, this is when God works best. In this moment, we learn, it isn’t about me, it is all God’s power. Nothing of what I’ve accomplished has been my doing, God has shown His power and I hope, has been glorified. That is where surrender comes, when we realize God will be glorified when we do what is impossible.

Next time God asks you to do something outside your comfort zone or ability, answer, “if You lead me, Thy Will be done.”

“for the rendering of this service not only supplies the wants of the saints but also overflows in many thanksgivings to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:12