I Corinthians 4:20
For the kingdom of God does not consist in words, but in power.

In this scripture, Paul writes to those in Corinth who are arrogant. He tells them he will come soon for a visit if the Lord wills. He’s going to look at their fruit to see if they are spouting empty words or if their ministry is accompanied with signs following.

Those signs could be anything from people being healed of various diseases, delivered from demons, or having their life turned around by the power of the gospel. In a later book Paul refers to people like this as “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away” (II Timothy 3:15).

We need to behave with an eye on this passage. Are we bringing people to Christ? Are we operating in the power of the Holy Spirit to minister to their needs? Do we see fruit from our labor or do we simply spout an empty doctrine devoid of the Holy Spirit’s power?

These are important questions to ask ourselves because one day we will stand before our Lord and give an account for the days He gave us.

Lord Jesus, please fill my days with Your presence
so that I may see as You see,
hear with Your ears,
and operate in the power of Your Holy Spirit.