Have you ever noticed that sometimes Jesus shows only little glimpses of his power?

We may wish for full-blown obliteration of all the problems and obstacles in our life. But Jesus leaves little roadblocks for us to struggle with in this life. He tells us, "My grace is sufficient for you."

We may hope for financial security and wealth that will carry us through the rest of our lives at a comfortable level. Jesus gives us this day our daily bread.

We may desire peace and contentment each day. We may want love that lasts forever. We may covet courage that will give us a backbone to face any opponent.

God may grant us a measure of peace and contentment some days. He may give us love that lasts for a good long while -- or just a short while. He may stiffen our backbone for some opponents, while allowing some fear to keep us humble and reliant on him for victory.

We see this in today's Old Testament reading about David. David, a man after God's own heart, was nevertheless still a sinful human being who needed God's help. God did not immediately give him everything he had promised him. He allowed David to struggle with his fears and selfish desires on the way to finding fulfillment.

We see it with Jesus. He could have -- with a word -- completely wiped out his betrayer Judas, and all the soldiers sent to arrest him. But instead of giving them a full blast of his divine power and justice, he dialed it back and gave them just a glimpse of who he is and the power he possesses.

"So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, 'Who is it you want?'

'Jesus of Nazareth,' they replied.

'I am he,' Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) When Jesus said, 'I am he,' they drew back and fell to the ground" (John 18:3-6, NIV).

Our Bible reading for Thursday, May 28, is 1 Samuel 21:1 - 23:29, John 18:1-24 and Proverbs 13:10-19.

Lord, allow me to see glimpses of your power. Show me that you are real and that you love me. Help me to be content with what you provide, and to see the benefit in waiting to see your full glory. As I journey toward heaven, be with me every day.

Header image based on "Power Lines" by Emmanuel Huybrechts, CC By 2.0