What are power moves?
Lauren McGoodwin at CareerContessa.com defines power moves as “the moves that take us out of our comfort zones and push us forward. They are the first steps that allow us to take many more steps.” If you are a video game player like my boys, power moves are the swift and simple actions that help you to defeat your enemy and come out on top.
Power moves are usually not announced or touted but performed in secret until it’s time to see the result. For example, T Mobile did not advertise on social media, “Hey- we’re looking for an acquisition that will give us a larger share of the telecommunications market.” No, they just made a power move and bought Sprint who already had the expansive network they needed. Consumers were not made aware until the merger was complete…power move!
Power moves are done in secret because once you announce your plans into the atmosphere, they are fair game for attack. Our adversary, the devil, is not all seeing or all knowing; only God has those characteristics. However, once you sound the alarm on your plans, they are open to scrutiny, criticism, obstacles, and competitors.
Even though we may physically be on lockdown because of a pandemic, there are still 4 power moves that we can make with our recent increase of free time.
Power of Preparation
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)
This global shutdown is a unique opportunity given by God for us to rest, reset, and prepare for our next season. During this season of preparation, it is important to ask God for the plan. The above verse tells us that He already knows the plan; it is our objective to ask Him to unveil the plan to us. What I love about God’s plans is that they are good, not evil. Even if the enemy tries to derail them, I know because I love God and I’m called according to his purpose, it’s still going to work out for my good (Romans 8:28)!
God’s plans contain hope, peace, and a certain future or expected end. It’s best to consult Him for the plan because His thoughts are not like our thoughts; His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). When He gives you the plan, write it down so you can remember it and not veer away from His instructions. Then, began to prepare for it to come to fruition.
Do the research. Take the course. Learn the new skill. Practice, tweak, and improve. But, use this time wisely and get started!
Power of Prayer
In those days when you pray, I will listen. – Jeremiah 29:12 (NLT)
I remember before COVID-19, I wished that I had more time to fast and pray. I would try to fast, but it seemed like more of a diet plan because I would not have quality time to spend with the Lord while I was at work.
Well…I’m at home now and I have no excuse! Not only is prayer a power move, but coupled with fasting, it’s a slam dunk from the 3-point line!
Matthew 6:16-18 tells us that fasting should not be obvious, so no one will suspect. Yet, your Heavenly Father will see your secret personal pursuit and reward you openly.
Power of Pursuit
“If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. – Jeremiah 29:13-14a (NLT)
The pandemic is a perfect catalyst to pursue God. While the world appears to be in chaos and flux, many are looking for answers, peace, stability, and assurance. The only place where you can find those things is in Christ Jesus and the Word of God.
Now is the time to pursue a real and intimate relationship with Holy Spirit. What’s holding you back? You’ve got time! Plus, you have a promise that when you seek for Him, you will find Him.
Also, from a natural perspective, this is a great time to chase down parts of the plan. Whereas some only hear recession, God says “everything is on sale!”
It is a perfect time to pull your free credit report and start clearing up any discrepancies. Creditors may be willing to negotiate and settle during this time because their businesses need money too. If you ever wanted to buy stock, the time is now, while the market is down and trying to recover. Thinking of starting a business or buying a house? Now is the time. Interest rates are at an all-time low. The Cares Act has many benefits that may be able to help you financially reset and position yourself for the next season.
Power of Positioning
“I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations and bring you home again to your own land.” – Jeremiah 29:14b (NLT)
In the Old Testament, God took the Israelites through cycles of freedom and captivity – but they always came out blessed when they left captivity. For example, when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt they left with flocks, herds, clothing, sliver, and gold. God made their enemies bless them and instead of leaving like slaves, they left looking like a victorious army (Exodus 12:36-38).
“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in good health, even as thy soul prospereth.”- 3 John 1:2 (KJV)
The Word promises us prosperity and good health, but there is a condition. Even as is a conditional statement meaning “in proportion to, in the degree that.” Therefore, you can prosper in other areas of your life BUT FIRST your soul must prosper.
Captivity is the time to do the “soul work” so you can be positioned correctly on the other side of the exodus.
Final Thoughts…
There is nothing new under the sun according to Ecclesiastes 1:9. The current pandemic may have been a surprise to us, but it did not catch God off guard. In fact, our current crisis parallels the Israelites captivity by the Babylonians in Jeremiah, chapters 27-29. Read their account in your spare time.
In the meantime, what power moves will you make during this national shutdown to position yourself for the exodus?
