Empowered by Surrender: God's Strength in Our Weakness

Summary

God never intended for us to walk out His will in our own strength. From the days of Bezalel in Exodus, whom God filled with His Spirit for the work of the tabernacle, to the promise in Acts that we would receive power from the Holy Spirit, God’s plan has always been to empower His people to do what He calls them to do. Too often, we find ourselves frustrated, anxious, or feeling stuck because we’re trying to solve our problems our own way, relying on our own wisdom and strength. Whether it’s in our marriages, our families, our jobs, or our personal struggles, the answer is not to try harder in our own flesh, but to surrender more deeply to God’s will and let Him work through us.

Many of us are tempted to look for solutions in the world—on social media, in self-help advice, or by venting our frustrations publicly. But God calls us to bring our burdens to Him in prayer, to trust Him with our needs, and to seek His direction. The power to overcome anger, to heal relationships, to find peace of mind, and to walk in victory comes not from our own efforts, but from the Spirit of God working in us as we say “yes” to Him. Obedience and surrender are the keys to unlocking God’s power in our lives.

God’s calling is not just for preachers or those in visible ministry. Every task He gives—whether it’s cleaning the church, encouraging someone, or leading a Bible study—is a spiritual work when done in obedience to Him. There is no “secular” work for the surrendered believer; everything becomes sacred when it’s done as unto the Lord. God equips those He calls, regardless of their background, personality, or natural ability. If He calls you, He will empower you.

Seasons of life will change—sometimes we’ll experience abundance and joy, other times hardship and lack. But God expects us to maintain a sweet, surrendered spirit in every season, trusting that He is working all things for our good as we walk in His will. The challenge is to stop doing things our way, to let go of old habits and grudges, and to fully embrace God’s plan. When we do, we’ll find that His power is more than enough for every need, and He will use us to accomplish amazing things for His glory.

Key Takeaways

- God’s Power Is Released Through Surrender, Not Self-Effort
The Lord never asks us to fulfill His will in our own strength. When we surrender our stubbornness and self-reliance, God fills us with His Spirit and enables us to do what we could never do alone. True spiritual power comes when we say “yes” to God and “no” to our own way, allowing Him to work through us in every area of life. [37:13]

- Obedience in the Ordinary Is Spiritual Work
Every task God calls us to—no matter how mundane it may seem—is a spiritual assignment when done in obedience. Cleaning, serving, encouraging, or leading are all sacred when offered to God. There is no division between “spiritual” and “secular” for the surrendered believer; all work becomes holy when it’s done as unto the Lord. [01:01:20]

- Victory Over Life’s Struggles Comes by Following God’s Plan
Many frustrations in life—whether in marriage, family, or personal growth—stem from trying to do things our own way. God’s Word gives us clear instructions for every relationship and challenge. When we humble ourselves, seek His guidance, and follow His plan, we experience peace, healing, and fruitfulness that self-effort can never produce. [43:21]

- God Equips the Called, Not Just the Qualified
God’s calling is not limited by our background, personality, or perceived abilities. If He calls you to a task, He will empower you to accomplish it, even if it’s something you’ve never done before. The key is a willing heart that trusts God to provide the wisdom, strength, and skill needed for the work He assigns. [01:02:13]

- Consistent Surrender Brings Consistent Blessing—In Every Season
Life brings both seasons of abundance and seasons of hardship. God calls us to maintain a surrendered, sweet spirit in both, trusting Him regardless of circumstances. When we refuse to let circumstances dictate our obedience or attitude, we position ourselves to receive God’s ongoing blessing and to be used by Him in powerful ways. [52:03]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[35:06] - Introduction and Greetings
[36:04] - God’s Empowerment in the Old and New Testament
[37:13] - The Power to Do God’s Will
[38:53] - Surrendering Our Way for God’s Way
[40:20] - God’s Plans and Our Response
[41:06] - The Purpose of God’s Power
[42:34] - Struggles from Self-Reliance
[43:21] - God’s Way in Relationships
[44:07] - Living for God Every Day
[48:19] - Sticking to God’s Plan in Hard Times
[49:13] - The Holy Spirit’s Guidance
[50:19] - Spiritual Disciplines and Growth
[52:03] - A Sweet Spirit in Every Season
[57:51] - God’s Call and Spiritual Assignments
[01:01:20] - All Work Is Spiritual
[01:02:13] - God Equips the Willing
[01:06:00] - Overcoming Limitations by God’s Spirit
[01:06:40] - Conclusion and Final Encouragement

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

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### Bible Reading

Exodus 31:1-5 (ESV)
> The Lord said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.”

Acts 1:8 (ESV)
> “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
> Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Exodus 31, what did God do for Bezalel so he could accomplish the work on the tabernacle?
2. In Acts 1:8, what is the purpose of the power that the Holy Spirit gives to believers?
3. The sermon mentioned that God’s power is released through surrender, not self-effort. What are some examples the pastor gave of people trying to do things in their own strength? [[38:53]]
4. What does Proverbs 3:5-6 say about relying on our own understanding versus trusting God?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think God chose to fill Bezalel with His Spirit for a task that seems “ordinary” like craftsmanship? What does this say about the kinds of work God values? [[01:00:31]]
2. The pastor said, “There is no ‘secular’ work for the surrendered believer; everything becomes sacred when it’s done as unto the Lord.” How does this challenge the way we view our daily tasks? [[01:01:20]]
3. According to the sermon, what is the connection between surrender, obedience, and experiencing God’s power in our lives? [[37:13]]
4. The pastor described seasons of abundance and seasons of hardship. Why is it important to maintain a “sweet, surrendered spirit” in both? [[52:03]]

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### Application Questions

1. The pastor talked about how we often try to solve our problems our own way—through social media, self-help, or venting. What is one area of your life where you tend to rely on your own strength instead of bringing it to God in prayer? What would it look like to surrender that area this week? [[38:53]]
2. Think about a “mundane” or “ordinary” task you do regularly (at home, work, or church). How could you approach it differently if you saw it as a spiritual assignment from God? [[01:00:31]]
3. The sermon mentioned that God equips those He calls, not just those who feel qualified. Is there something you feel God is calling you to do, but you feel unqualified for? What is holding you back from saying “yes” to God? [[01:02:13]]
4. The pastor gave examples of people holding onto old habits or grudges for years. Is there a specific hurt, habit, or grudge you need to let go of in order to fully surrender to God’s will? What step could you take this week to begin that process? [[57:09]]
5. When you face frustration or conflict in relationships (marriage, family, work), do you tend to “yell louder” or try harder in your own way? What would it look like to follow God’s plan instead, as described in the sermon? [[43:21]]
6. The pastor said, “Consistent surrender brings consistent blessing—in every season.” What is one practical way you can keep a surrendered, sweet spirit whether you’re in a season of abundance or hardship? [[52:03]]
7. The sermon challenged us to stop dividing life into “spiritual” and “secular.” How might your attitude or actions change if you truly believed that every part of your life—work, chores, relationships—was sacred and empowered by God’s Spirit? [[01:01:20]]

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Devotional

Day 1: God Empowers Us to Do His Will, Not Our Own
God never intended for us to accomplish His will in our own strength; instead, He fills us with His Spirit and equips us with wisdom, understanding, and skill for the tasks He calls us to. Just as Bezalel was filled with the Spirit of God to build the tabernacle, God gives each of us the power and ability to fulfill our unique calling when we surrender to Him. No matter your background or limitations, when you say “yes” to God, He will enable you to do amazing things for His glory. The key is not striving in your own power, but allowing God to work through you as you walk in obedience to His plan. [36:04]

Exodus 31:1-5 (ESV)
The Lord said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.”

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you have been trying to succeed in your own strength? How can you invite God’s Spirit to empower you for that task today?


Day 2: The Power of the Holy Spirit Enables Us to Be Witnesses
God’s promise is that we will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us—not for our own benefit, but so that we can be His witnesses in every area of our lives. This power is not about personal gain or status, but about being equipped to share Christ and live out His will wherever He sends us. When we surrender to the Holy Spirit, He gives us boldness, strength, and the ability to impact others for God’s kingdom, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. [37:13]

Acts 1:8 (ESV)
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Reflection: Where is God calling you to be a witness this week, and how can you rely on the Holy Spirit’s power rather than your own abilities?


Day 3: Surrendering Our Will Brings God’s Blessing and Peace
Many of us struggle with anxiety, frustration, or feeling stuck because we insist on doing things our own way instead of surrendering to God’s plan. True peace and blessing come when we trust in the Lord with all our heart, let go of stubbornness, and say “yes” to God’s will—even when it’s difficult or different from our own desires. As we surrender, God directs our paths, brings revival to our homes and relationships, and accomplishes what we could never do alone. [40:20]

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Reflection: Is there a specific area where you’ve been resisting God’s direction? What would it look like to fully surrender that area to Him today?


Day 4: Obedience and Daily Living According to God’s Plan
Living for God is not just a Sunday activity—it’s a daily commitment to obeying His Word and Spirit in every aspect of life. When we try to live with one foot in the world and one in the church, we miss out on God’s power and blessing. God calls us to be set apart, to seek His kingdom first, and to let our actions and attitudes reflect His love and peace every day, not just when it’s convenient. Obedience begins with surrender and is sustained by daily choices to follow God’s way, even when it’s hard. [44:07]

Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take today to align your daily habits with God’s plan rather than your own preferences?


Day 5: Every Task Done for God Is Sacred and Empowered
No matter how big or small the task, when God calls you to do something—even cleaning, serving, or encouraging others—it is a spiritual work. There is no “secular” work for the believer; everything done in obedience to God is sacred and empowered by His Spirit. When you step out in faith, God will equip you with the skills, strength, and grace you need, even if you feel unqualified or nervous. Trust that God can use you in ways you never imagined when you offer your willingness and obedience to Him. [01:01:20]

Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

Reflection: What is one “ordinary” task or responsibility you can intentionally offer to God today, asking Him to use it for His glory?

Quotes

There are those that are saying, my life is not productive. My life is not getting anywhere. That's because you still want to live one foot in sin and you want to come to church on Sunday morning and say, praise the Lord, everybody. Come on out. And then when you leave those doors, you go right out back to your house and you got beer in your refrigerator. [00:44:07] (18 seconds)  #LiveHolyEveryday Edit Clip

God wants us to live for him every single day and those that have learned the blessing of living for God every single day say amen this morning how many have learned his peace is good every day his his love is abundant every day his miracles can come at any moment it doesn't need to just come on sunday but god can bless on a wednesday god can move on thursday god just wants somebody to do it his way you've got to be obedient to the spirit of god [00:44:52] (29 seconds)  #ObedienceBringsDailyBlessings Edit Clip

At some point, we've got to turn our mind on what God wants us to do and stop chasing careers. Stop chasing all the things of this life, wealth and fame and all the comforts of this life, and get to a place where we surrender our all to God and say, God, I want your will to be done. [00:51:46] (16 seconds)  #SeekGodsWillAboveAll Edit Clip

Obedience begins with surrender. I give it all to you, Jesus. God, make me and mold me the way you want me to be. I've been stubborn. I've been doing things my way. But God, I turn it over to you. [00:55:51] (15 seconds)  #SurrenderAndTrustFully Edit Clip

Somewhere on the line, you've got to turn it over to Jesus. He said, trust in the Lord with all of your heart. How many of you learned to trust in Jesus? With all of your heart. And you just take it to the altar, and you pray, and just let it go. Now, when you get it from the altar, you don't pick up your problem again. You leave your problem at the altar. You let it go. [00:57:16] (20 seconds)  #CalledToServeWithFaith Edit Clip

Whenever God calls you to do something, it's a spiritual work. It's a spiritual work. You're not going to believe this, but if God calls you to clean the bathrooms, we need a cleaning team here in the church. So many times throughout the week, you know, I've tried to come by, and I know Sister Morgan on Sunday morning tries to go there. We need a cleaning team. So God raises up some people, touches the heart. Hey, I'll clean the church. I can come an hour this week and help clean up. But if you're cleaning the bathrooms, did you know that's a spiritual work? God laid it in your heart to help out the work of God by taking out the trash. Now, you say, well, that's not spiritual. Whatever God is calling you to do, whatever God lays in your heart to do, that's his will. [01:00:31] (49 seconds)  #GodEnablesHisCall Edit Clip

Whatever God wants me to do, He's going to enable me to learn how to do it. And if God can do that in my life, why can't God do that for everyone else? Come on now. You can do whatever God's called you to do. As God calls you, you can do whatever God wants you to do. [01:03:20] (17 seconds)  #HealingComesThroughObedience Edit Clip

You can if the Spirit of God calls you to do it. God in me, if God before us, who can be against us? I can do God's work. Now come on, someone help me out. I can do what God tells me to do. I can do what God tells me to do. One more time. I can do what God tells me to do. [01:06:10] (21 seconds) Edit Clip