DAY 7 — Strength for the Inner Life

The first thirst-quenching essential we all need is strength.

Paul prayed for the Ephesian believers to be “strengthened with power through His Spirit” (Ephesians 3:16 ESV). The word carries the idea of spiritual firmness and vigor—strength that makes you steady, resilient, and unafraid of what would normally overwhelm you.

But when we don’t draw strength from Jesus, we chase it elsewhere.

We chase physical strength. We join gyms, buy memberships, and tell ourselves this will be the year. But research shows most people quit after five months. Nearly 14% don’t even make it past month two. A stronger body isn’t wrong—it’s just not enough to satisfy the deeper need.

We chase mental strength. We try better sleep, a healthier diet, or grit fueled by caffeine and 5-hour energy drinks. We push ourselves harder and longer, hoping resilience will show up on demand. But in the end, these solutions fade too. Life keeps moving toward entropy.

And when our strength inevitably runs out, we’re left exhausted, frustrated, and unsatisfied.

That’s why Paul prayed differently. He knew true strength comes only through the Spirit of God in our inner being. Only Jesus gives the kind of strength that doesn’t deplete, decay, or disappoint. His power steadies us, anchors us, and enables us to stand firm when everything else shakes.

We all want strength—but only Jesus can fill that need. And the more we rely on Him, the more He strengthens us with a power that doesn’t fade.

The strength you long for won’t be found in the gym, the diet, or the energy drink—but in Jesus, who strengthens you from the inside out.

Drink Deep

Where are you looking for strength apart from Jesus—your body, your mind, or your willpower? Today, pray Paul’s words in Ephesians 3:16–17 over yourself. Ask God to strengthen you through His Spirit in your inner being.