Developing Spiritual Effectiveness Through Daily Intimacy With GodSample

YOU CANNOT GIVE WHAT YOU DO NOT HAVE

Effectiveness in life and ministry demands that you first possess what you seek to impart. Spiritual leadership is not about eloquence, titles, or even charisma. Instead, it is the ability to give something genuine from your relationship with God. Peter boldly declared to the lame man at the gate Beautiful, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee…” (Acts 3:6). He could give because he had first received something tangible from the Lord.

Take note of this: you cannot impart to others what you do not personally possess. Many people attempt to minister or influence others from a place of spiritual emptiness. This leads to ineffective ministry, frustration, and burnout. Before you can genuinely touch others, you must ensure your life is continuously being filled and refreshed by the Lord.

In Matthew 10:8, Jesus instructed His disciples, “Freely ye have received, freely give.” Notice the order: receive first, then give. You cannot skip the receiving stage and expect genuine spiritual results. God intends for your life and ministry to flow naturally from your relationship with Him, not from human effort alone.

Today, take a moment to evaluate your spiritual reservoir. Are you consistently replenishing your spiritual strength through prayer, worship, and fellowship with God, or are you running on empty? Let your focus be on receiving from God first, so your service to others becomes powerful and life-giving.

THOUGHT TO PONDER:

Are you trying to minister or serve from spiritual emptiness? What practical steps will you take today to fill yourself spiritually before reaching out to others?

PRAYER:

Father, fill my heart afresh today with Your power and presence. Let my ministry and service to others flow genuinely from my communion with You. In Jesus' name, Amen.