Have you heard about the just-released Guideposts book, Pray a Word a Day? I’m honored to be among contributors of this non-dated, 365-day devotional that helps you to be intentional about connecting with God by praying just one word each day. One of my contributions suggested a word that’s rich and powerful in meaning and effect:
Dunamis
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. —Ephesians 3:20 NIV
I’m old enough to remember the character J.J. on the television sitcom Good Times. Played by comedian and actor Jimmy Walker, J.J. electrified audiences with his signature exclamation, “Dy-no-mite!” Walker and “Dy-no-mite” were key factors in the popularity of the show.
“Dy-no-mite” is at work in every Christian’s life, and I pray it often for myself and others. I don’t use Jimmy Walker’s pronunciation, but I sometimes use the Greek word dunamis, which is typically translated in the Bible as “power.” It’s also the source of the English word dynamite, and that association enriches my praying. I ask often for God’s dunamis to permeate and energize my life and the lives of those around me—a prayer with explosive power.
Mighty God, show Your dunamis today in my life and in the lives of those around me. Amen.
Like the above, each of the short readings starts with an inspirational quote or Scripture based on one word, followed by a short anecdote and prayer. Each day also offers a space to jot your own thought or prayer in response to the reading.
If you haven’t yet started using Pray a Word a Day, I hope that you will soon, as it can be a powerful and dynamic practice to take just one word with you each day, praying it throughout the day and letting God use it to speak to you.
