Where does my confidence come from?

2 Corinthians 3: ⁴ Such confidence we have through Christ before God. ^5 6 Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant —not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

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After hours of study I felt prepared.  You would think I would have done this kind of studying my entire academic career but this time it was do or die.  My vigorous study came after I had been placed on academic probation which meant if I did not pull my grades up I would be kicked out of college. “LORD I need your help” I cried out.  

I actually got on the dean’s list for great grades that semester.

• Sometimes I think “I” am smarter than I give GOD credit for.
• Sometimes I believe it takes extra effort from “me” instead of asking GOD.
• Sometimes I surmise that I know it all and I need not consult GOD on my affairs.

GOD says “it is a fool who says there is no GOD” and I was acting as if HE didn’t exist. I never consulted HIM, never reflected on HIM and did not commune with HIM but when I wanted something I was willing to act deserving and then blame HIM when the answer was “No.”

When I got on probation in the first place I asked GOD to give me all the knowledge I needed at the last minute. Obviously “no” was the answer. That situation made me think about GOD a little differently.

• My wisdom comes from GOD but I should ask for it instead of expecting it.
• My competence comes from GOD but I still have to work at honing my craft.
• My confidence comes from GOD but I still have to face the issues and solve the problems of today.

My expectations should be centered around GOD and HIS power.  Wisdom, knowledge and understanding are gifts I cannot take credit for.  At all turns, I need to thank GOD for what HE has bestowed on me.

• Do you think you are smart?
• Do you believe you have it all together?
• Can you stop looking at yourself and give GOD credit for your wisdom?
• Won’t you use the wisdom HE has given you to further HIS kingdom?