When we only focus on the problems around us we can easily miss the power within us. Thomas Edison once said, “If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.” God has instilled within us a potential far beyond what we can fathom.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)

20 Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, 21 to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.

God’s power is at work within us. What a promise we can hold on to! God is working in you to bring about something from you. Many people know who God is, but they don’t know who they are in Christ. You are His masterpiece that He is continually working on until He brings you to completion in the end. We have to realize who we A.R.E. in Christ.

A–You are ACCEPTED

Romans 15:7 (NIV)

Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

You need to understand that God accepts you because of Jesus. When you place your faith in Jesus, God adopts you into His family. No longer do you have to feel abandoned or alone. Jesus loves you just as you are and welcomes you with open arms. 

R–You are REDEEMED

Galatians 3:13 (NIV)

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.

Not only does Christ accept you, but He also redeems you. Notice how the Scripture says He “redeemed us”—it’s in the past tense. Your redemption was taken care of on the cross. He paid the full price for all of eternity. You don’t have to earn salvation; it is not a process. Your faith in Christ offers you full and immediate redemption. 

E–You Are EQUIPPED

Hebrews 13:21 (NIV)

May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Not only does Christ accept us and redeem us, but He also equips us with everything we need to fulfill all He has called us to. You are already fully equipped to do all that God has planned for you. Your job is to activate your faith by acknowledging the gifts and talents He has given you and stepping out to use them. The more you operate in your gifts, the greater your impact for the Kingdom will be.