The Power from Within

For so many years, I looked to others to tell me what I needed to do. I sought their approval, their guidance, and their validation. I believed they held the keys to unlocking the next level of my life. But what I didn’t realize was that the power I was searching for was already within me.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of relying on others to define our worth or chart our path. Society often conditions us to believe that success, purpose, and fulfillment are things granted by external sources. We look to mentors, friends, family, or even strangers for direction, hoping they’ll illuminate the way forward. More times than not when not knowing the power that I possessed caused me to be mishandled, misguided, and utilized for other’s selfish intentions.

“You have more power than you think”

But the truth is, no one can walk your journey for you. No one else has lived your experiences, felt your pain, or dreamed your dreams. The unique blueprint for your life resides in you—and only you.

I had to unlearn the habit of seeking validation outside myself. It was a process of peeling back layers of doubt, fear, and insecurity. I had to confront the uncomfortable truth: I had been giving away my power. I had finally realized that the power starts on the inside of me. Once I ignited the fire on the inside of me which was my purpose, I knew that there wasn’t anything that I couldn’t do or accomplish when I set my mind to do it.

Reclaiming that power started with self-reflection. I asked myself:

  • What do I truly want?

  • What gifts and talents has God placed within me?

  • How can I honor my journey and trust the process?

The answers didn’t come overnight, but they came. Slowly, I began to trust my inner voice. I started making decisions based on what felt aligned with my purpose, not what others expected of me.

One of the most liberating lessons I learned was this: seeking guidance is not the same as seeking permission. It's okay to lean on others for support, wisdom, and encouragement. But the ultimate responsibility for your life lies with you.

The power from within is not just about self-confidence or independence. It’s about recognizing that God has already equipped you with everything you need to fulfill your purpose. His grace is sufficient, and His strength is perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

When I stopped looking outward and started looking upward and inward, everything changed. I discovered resilience I didn’t know I had. I tapped into creativity that had been lying dormant. And most importantly, I found peace—a deep, unshakable peace in knowing that I am enough.

I don’t need someone else’s permission to pursue my dreams. I don’t need external validation to confirm my worth. And I certainly don’t need to wait for someone else to lead me to the next level—I can create my path.

When I embraced this truth, everything began to shift. I stopped looking outward and started looking inward. I tapped into the strength, resilience, and creativity there all along. It wasn’t always easy, but every step I took in alignment with my inner power brought me closer to the person I was meant to be.

This journey taught me the importance of trusting myself and leaning into the divine wisdom that God placed within me. Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Even in my moments of doubt, God’s grace carried me. His strength empowered me to rise, to believe in myself, and to move forward with confidence.

If you’ve been looking to others for direction or validation, I want to encourage you today: you already have what it takes. The power you’re searching for isn’t out there—it’s within you.

Here are three steps to help you tap into that power:

  1. Quiet the Noise
    Spend time in prayer, meditation, or reflection. Disconnect from external influences and tune into your own voice. Ask God to reveal His plan for your life and trust that He will guide you.

  2. Affirm Your Worth
    Remind yourself daily that you are enough. Speak life over yourself with affirmations like, “I am capable,” “I am loved,” and “I am walking in purpose.”

  3. Take Bold Steps
    Don’t wait for the perfect moment or someone else’s approval. Start where you are, with what you have, and trust that each step will lead you closer to your goals.

The power from within is your greatest gift. It’s what makes you unique, resilient, and unstoppable. When you learn to trust yourself and the God-given strength inside you, you’ll discover that you’re capable of far more than you ever imagined.

So, stop looking to others to tell you what you need to do today. Look within. The answers, the strength, and the power are already there. It’s time to rise, trust yourself, and step boldly into the next level of your journey.

You’ve got this. 💪✨

Treva Barnard

She is the mother of three beautiful daughters, a minister in the gospel, a mentor, and an inspirational writer who desires to bring encouragement and hope to those who might need it.

https://www.newlifeencouragementforthesoul.org
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The Road to Self-Discovery