Life on a Higher Plain - Martin Wiles

I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe in him. Ephesians 1:19 NLT

Almost without exception, it happened every time we backpacked.

From my late thirties to early forties, my brother, daughter, and I observed a regular backpacking routine. Several times a year, we trudged the Carolinas, Georgia, and Tennessee mountains. We planned our trips meticulously and looked forward to each one. With one exception—the uphills. Camping spots were almost always in a valley, meaning an uphill climb was the first thing we faced the next morning. But the strenuous climbs were always worth it. Reaching the tops provided us with vistas never before witnessed.

Although Paul wasn’t describing a hiking trek or a higher plain, he could have been. Obviously, many of the first-century believers didn’t understand the power they had in Christ. They were dwelling in the valley of satisfaction when there was a higher plain to reach. Understanding their power in Christ would propel them to these high peaks.

Living on a higher plain of understanding allows us to use the power God gives to witness. Sharing our faith can be a frightening thing. We never know how people will react and sometimes don’t know the right words to say. Some may just walk away, while others might berate or physically attack us. Though we may fumble our words and risk harm to ourselves, God’s power to witness will enable us to overcome both possibilities.

Life on a higher plain entails trusting God’s power for life’s trials. No temptation will be greater than His power to help us endure and overcome, nor will any terrible situation be so unbearable that He can’t walk us through it.

On the higher plain, God also gives us the capacity to touch others in His name. Loving them as we do ourselves is the second greatest command, according to Jesus. God will provide the opportunities and resources if we merely ask.

When living on a higher plain, we’ll experience God’s ability to help us endure to the end. Jesus said the one who does so will be saved. Life can throw some terrible curves that might tempt us to give up, but the Spirit’s power in us is greater than anything the enemy can lob our way.

Don’t live in the valley. Choose the higher plain.

Father, help me realize the power You give that enables me to live on the higher plain.

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