Devotional
One of the most liberating truths about God is also one of the most challenging: He refuses to be contained by our boxes, our buildings, or our expectations. This isn’t a limitation – it’s His greatest strength and our greatest hope. When the Philistines captured the Ark and placed it in their temple next to their idol Dagon, they thought they had conquered Israel’s God. They assumed that capturing His symbol meant controlling His power. But God cannot be contained by circumstances, confined by buildings, or controlled by human schemes. Dagon fell flat on his face – twice. The second time, his head and hands were broken off, leaving only a torso. The message was clear: before the true God, all false gods are powerless and foolish. No matter where the Ark went, God’s presence and power remained absolute. This truth should encourage you today. Maybe you feel like your circumstances have God trapped or limited. Perhaps you think He can only work in certain ways, through certain people, or in certain places. But the God you serve is bigger than your biggest problem and more creative than your wildest imagination. He’s not limited to working through your church building, your pastor, your preferred worship style, or your comfortable routines. He can meet you in a hospital room, speak to you through a stranger, or work miracles in the most unlikely places. When life feels chaotic and unpredictable, remember that you serve an uncontainable God. He’s not stuck in your circumstances – He’s sovereign over them. He’s not limited by your resources – He owns everything. He’s not confined to your understanding – His ways are higher than yours. This uncontainable God chooses to dwell within you. How amazing is that?
Bible Verse
“The Philistines took the ark of God and brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod. Then they carried the ark into Dagon’s temple and set it beside Dagon. When the people of Ashdod rose early the next day, there was Dagon, fallen on his face on the ground before the ark of the Lord!” – 1 Samuel 5:1-3
Reflection Question
How has your view of God been too small, and in what areas of your life do you need to trust His uncontainable power?
Quote God is not going to permanently attach himself to any one thing or to any one person, or to any one place, or to any one denomination or to any one style. He is God all by himself.
Prayer
Lord, expand my understanding of who You are. Help me to stop trying to fit You into my small boxes and limited expectations. Thank You that You are not confined by my circumstances or limited by my resources. Work in ways that only You can, and help me to trust Your uncontainable power. Amen.