Empowered by His Presence: Receiving the Strength You Need Each Day

by Kevin G. Harney

Overview

God's kingdom isn't about getting more power—it's about being empowered to face life head on and fulfill his purposes for us. For readers who are feeling beaten down and discouraged by constant striving, Kevin Harney points to four surprising and God-given sources of true strength:

· suffering, loss, and pain
· community
· Sabbath and rest
· mission and purpose

Through biblical and personal stories, he shows how each source daily empowers believers to live boldly, serve humbly, and overcome whatever difficult circumstances they may be facing. Perfect for small group study and individual devotion.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780801014697
Publisher:	Baker Publishing Group
Publication date:	11/04/2014
Pages:	224
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.40(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Kevin G. Harney (MDiv, Fuller Seminary; DMin, Western Theological Seminary) is lead pastor of Shoreline Community Church in Monterey, California. Harney is the author of several books, including Reckless Faith and the Organic Outreach series, as well as many small group guides, curriculum, and articles. He also does extensive teaching and speaking both nationally and internationally. He lives in California.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Powerful, Powerless, or Empowered? 13

Section 1 Experiencing God's Presence in Suffering, Loss, and Pain

1 Job's Epic Story of Suffering: When Relentless Suffering Meets Unyielding Faith 21

2 Paul's 195 Scars: Facing Abuse for Doing the Right Thing 27

3 Hannah's Sorrow and Tears: When Dreams Don't Come True 33

4 Joseph's Journey of Loss: Far from Home But Close to God 39

5 Peter, a Disciple's Sacrifice: Trading Everything for Jesus 46

6 Jesus's Scream of Loneliness: Our Example of Suffering with Purpose 52

Resources for Living an Empowered Life 58

Section 2 Encountering God in the Community of His People

7 A Paralytic and His Friends: Are You on the Mat or Carrying It? 69

8 Paul and Timothy: Climbing in Community 74

9 Ruth and Naomi: Forging a Family 80

10 Lois, Eunice, and Timothy: The Blessing of a Spiritual Legacy 86

11 The Woman at the Well: From Outcast to Embraced 94

12 Jesus and His Friends: Crushed and Poured Out, But Not Alone 101

Resources for Living an Empowered Life 107

Section 3 Empowered for the Journey by Receiving God's Rest

13 God's Example: Why Would God Take a Day Off? 117

14 Moses's Teaching: Called to Rest 123

15 Israel's Struggle: Resistance, Manna, and Maggots 129

16 David's Shepherd Psalm: Green Pastures and Still Waters 134

17 Elijah's Turning Point: The Value of a Nap and a Snack 141

18 Jesus's Early Mornings: Intimacy with the Father 147

Resources for Living an Empowered Life 154

Section 4 Propelled Onward by the Call and Mission of God

19 Paul's Call: Knocked Down, Blinded, and Turned Around 163

20 Isaiah's Invitation: Speaking with Blistered Lips 170

21 Abraham's Journey: Going without Knowing 177

22 Esther's Risk: This Could Cost You Everything 183

23 Mary's Maternity: I Am the Lord's Servant 189

24 Jesus's Mission: Seeking and Saving the Lost 195

Resources for Living an Empowered Life 201

Afterword: Receiving the Strength I Need Today 207

Small Group Discussion Guide 209

Notes 219