The concept of expecting God's power is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where God's omnipotence is a central theme. Throughout Scripture, believers are encouraged to trust in God's ability to intervene, transform, and sustain. This expectation is not merely wishful thinking but is grounded in the character and promises of God as revealed in the Bible.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, God's power is often demonstrated through acts of creation, deliverance, and judgment. The creation account in Genesis 1 showcases God's power as He speaks the universe into existence. Psalm 33:6-9 reflects on this creative power: "By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the stars by the breath of His mouth... For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm."

The Exodus narrative is another profound demonstration of God's power. Through Moses, God delivers the Israelites from Egyptian bondage with signs and wonders, including the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22). This event becomes a foundational memory for Israel, reminding them of God's ability to save and His faithfulness to His covenant promises.

Prophets like Isaiah also speak of God's power, often in the context of hope and restoration. Isaiah 40:29-31 declares, "He gives power to the faint and increases the strength of the weak... those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint."

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the expectation of God's power is centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Gospels record numerous miracles performed by Jesus, demonstrating His divine authority and compassion. In Matthew 9:6 , Jesus heals a paralytic, saying, "But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins..." This act of healing is a testament to His power over both physical and spiritual realms.

The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate display of God's power, conquering sin and death. Paul writes in Romans 1:4 that Jesus "was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead." This event assures believers of the power available to them through faith in Christ.

The early church experienced God's power through the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8 records Jesus' promise: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses..." The subsequent events at Pentecost (Acts 2) and the spread of the Gospel illustrate the transformative power of the Spirit in the lives of believers.

Living in Expectation

Believers are called to live in expectation of God's power in their daily lives. This expectation is not passive but involves active faith and obedience. Ephesians 3:20-21 encourages believers with the assurance that God "is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us."

Prayer is a vital means by which believers express their expectation of God's power. James 5:16 states, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." Through prayer, believers align themselves with God's will and invite His intervention in their circumstances.

The expectation of God's power also involves a readiness to witness and serve. Paul exhorts Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:7 , "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline." This empowerment enables believers to fulfill their calling and bear witness to the Gospel with boldness.

In summary, expecting God's power is a biblical principle that encourages believers to trust in God's ability to act in accordance with His will and purposes. This expectation is rooted in the historical acts of God, the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the church and individual believers.