One of my weaknesses is storming into the day in my own power, keeping God at a distance. I have my time with the Lord in the morning, centering my heart on him, then I exit that “meeting” with my marching orders to live for him. There’s a disconnect between my time with God and my life with God.

No wonder I often lack courage and conviction.

Do you experience the joy of living with Jesus throughout the day, including him in every step? Or do you unwittingly keep him at a distance, as if he is a spectator cheering you on?

Today the light went on. Jesus lives in me. Not a big revelation, but one that smacked me in my spiritual face. C’mon Jon, it’s so obvious. I have the God of the universe living in me. He’s not just walking beside me, but in me. He fills my heart with courage and conviction.

“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 ESV)

God is alive in me. He is alive in you.

It’s fantastic news! Close your eyes, take a deep breath and smile.

This truth has incredible implications.

It means you’re not supposed to perform for God, but to let him live through you. Instead of relying on your gifts and abilities, live fully dependent upon God. After all, Jesus did say, “For apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NIV) Relying on Jesus puts you in the center of his will.

Not that you disregard your talents, but you yield them to God. He’ll use your gifts with his power for his glory. That’s an exciting thought!

God is your friend. He is your Father. The Lord Jesus is your brother. The Holy Spirit is your power. This is a personal relationship. How can you not have courage in whatever you’re facing? You’re on a winning team. You are equipped to live for Jesus by living in the relationship you have with him.

Today, remind yourself that God lives inside you. This will change the way you approach people, challenges, decisions, pain, opportunities and whatever is ahead. You have Jesus. And he has you.

Lord Jesus, please grant me courage from within. I know that you live inside me through your Holy Spirit. I rely on You. Amen.

(From my new Devotional, Your Life With God: 30 Days of Courage. Available on Amazon in Kindle and Paperback).