How Limiting God Impedes Success

Daily Devotional – Wednesday, January 4, 2023
Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel.
Psalm 78:41 (NKJV)

You have probably heard that the grave is the richest or most fertile place on earth. Apparently, most human beings die with their abilities intact, having not discovered or exploited their potentials. This results from limiting God.

Restraining the Almighty

How can a human being restrain the Almighty God from exercising His power? The Parable of the Talents has clues. A rich man was about to travel to a far country. He called his three trusted servants for a special reason.

“And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.” (Matthew 25:15). Each servant had an opportunity to utilize the talents and transform his life positively.

Undermining the Lord’s Power

After many days, the lord returned and summoned the three servants. The servants who had received five and two talents respectively had doubled their talents through business. In contrast, the one who had one talent had hidden his master’s money in the ground hence making no profit.

What reason did the lazy man give the master? “Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.” (Verses 24-25).

Restricting God and Oneself

The reasons this servants gives reveal that the problem is actually with him and not the master. The rich man had given the talents according to the ability of each man but this servant doubted Himself and the Master’s wisdom.

By limiting His master, the sluggard failed to reach his potential. The other two believed in themselves and the faith the master had in them. This belief propelled them to achieve their goals. Their lord rewarded them for their wisdom and practical faith.

They Limited the Holy One of Israel

We find a similar thread in a psalm written by Asaph. While describing the rebellious Israelites who had left Egypt, the psalmist noted, “Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel.” (Psalm 78:41).

As you contemplate how to implement your plans and resolution this New Year, remember not to limit God. Have total faith in Him. Believe that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. (Philippians 4:13).

Limiting God Impedes Success

God has placed immense potential in you. Determine to live up to your abilities. Start that business. Write that book. Enroll in that academic or professional course. Start the project you have postponed for long. Stop limiting God. You will achieve your dreams.

Prayer
Dear God, I will not limit You because I know You have everything I need to succeed.