An example of the second type of synonym, that of exerting effort, is the word 'energy'. 'Energy' applies to power expended or capable of being transformed into work. I Corinthians 2 gives us the situation of Paul telling the Corinthians he was not good at speaking, or in great wisdom. But in vs. 4 he says his preaching was a demonstration of the Spirit and of Power. Verse 6 he is telling the Corinthians that his wisdom is not of this age, and verse 7 says that it is the Wisdom of God. Verse 10 he is telling the Corinthians that all this is revealed by God's Spirit. Paul is saying that in himself he lacked wisdom and speaking ability, but through the Spirit he was given the power to transform his lack of ability into a real work for the Lord. All of God's children are given special spiritual gifts, given by the Holy Spirit and used to edify other believers and to reach the unsaved. If God gives us a task to do, the Holy Spirit will give us the power to do it.
Another word under the second type is 'strength'. 'Strength' applies to the quality or property of a person or thing that makes possible the exertion of force or the withstanding of strain, pressure, or attack. Isaiah 40:29 tells us clearly that "He giveth power to the faint, and to those who have no might He increaseth strength." II Cor. 12:9 further explains that "My strength is made perfect in weakness" and verse 10: "when I am weak then am I strong" In Col. 1:11 Paul is pleased to hear of the Colossians love in the Spirit and prays they will be "strengthened with all might according to His (The Holy Spirit) glorious power."
The Holy Spirit is given as:
God's Promise of the Holy Spirit
For wisdom to know the next step
For comfort and peace in His absence
For opportunities to tell others about Jesus
For power to change lives.
1. From the heart of CC
2. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
3. Just Give me Jesus, Anne Graham Lotz, c1000, page 161, Word Publishing Nashville
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