Daily Devotional: Drawing Strength
- David A. Case
- Jan 28
- 4 min read
By David A. Case
Life Sayings:
I can only draw strength from what I trust.
I only trust what I submit to.
"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death." — Romans 8:2 NKJV
We often say, “I’m in control of my life.” But Scripture tells us something much deeper: I’m not defined by how much I control—I’m defined by what (or whom) I’m connected to. I can only draw strength from what I trust, and I only trust what I’m willing to submit to.
In Romans 8:2, Paul speaks of two laws: the law of sin and death and the law of the Spirit of life. These two forces are real, and they’re pulling on all of us. The law of sin and death doesn’t go away just because we “want to do better.” That’s why the old phrase “he just didn’t want it bad enough” often misses the point. People don’t change simply because they want to—they change when they’re connected to something stronger than their bondage.
And here’s the hard truth: wanting to be free is not the same as being able to live free.
Addicts know this battle all too well, but so do we all. Whether it’s fear, bitterness, pride, lust, control, or insecurity, we all have areas where we do things we don’t want to do. The answer isn’t found in more willpower. It’s found in more connection—healthy, godly connection that allows us to draw strength from outside ourselves.
Reflection Question
Where in my life do I keep repeating the same pattern, even though I genuinely want to change? What does that reveal about the connections I’m drawing strength from?
Trust and Transfer
Every connection involves transfer. When I trust someone or something—even subtly—I open the door for influence. That influence can either build me up or drag me down. It can bring life or bring death. And often, the people I feel most drawn to aren’t the ones who are best for me—they’re just familiar. If I grew up surrounded by manipulation or anger or control, those dynamics will feel “normal,” even if they’re toxic.
That’s why change often feels wrong at first. Healthy people feel foreign. Life-giving correction feels harsh. Loving accountability can feel like judgment. That’s not because the new connection is bad—it’s because my old normal has shaped my instincts. Left to myself, I will seek out relationships that repeat my dysfunction. That’s why transformation demands new connections and courageous trust.
Courageous Trust
Real growth means trusting beyond what’s comfortable. It means connecting with godly people who have the outcomes I desire—even if their feedback challenges me. I don’t need perfect people, but I do need connected people. People who walk with God. People who demonstrate maturity over time. People who have fruit, not just talk.
And yes, even the immature or the unlikely can speak truth. Sometimes my enemies deliver God's message better than my friends. The key is humility. If I will humble myself, I’ll hear what God is saying—even through surprising messengers.
Practical Wisdom
Trust isn't just about feelings. It's about outcomes. Jesus said in John 7:24, "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment." In other words, look at the fruit. Who's producing peace, hope, love, transformation? Who’s walking in the Spirit—and who’s just pretending?
Yes, grace is real. But grace doesn’t remove the law of sowing and reaping. God gives strength to those who truly connect with Him. And He often delivers that strength through relationships—with coaches, mentors, accountability partners, spiritual leaders.
Prayer
Father, I confess that I’ve tried to overcome some things on my own. I’ve relied on my willpower instead of Your Spirit. I’ve sometimes trusted voices that sounded familiar instead of voices that led me toward life. Help me discern who I’m connecting with and what I’m drawing from them. Teach me to build healthy, godly relationships that pour truth, peace, and power into my life. I want to be free—not just in desire, but in reality. Amen.
Today’s Step of Obedience
Do an honest inventory. Who are you connected to? Who are you drawing strength from? Who has influence in your life—and are they connected to God? Then, take one step toward deeper connection with someone who is walking in godliness and bearing real fruit.
This devotional was inspired by the book Heart Change Handbook by David A. Case. If you found it helpful, please consider it for your own self-study and suggest it to your church small group or recovery community as a basis for small group study.
If this message has encouraged you to pursue deeper transformation, I invite you to continue the journey through The Heart Change Handbook. It provides a practical, biblical path for spiritual growth and is an excellent resource for church small groups and recovery communities. Consider getting your copy today and introducing it to your group as a guide toward meaningful heart change.
👉 Learn more about Small Group Resources from Heart Change U.
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