Do you seek to prove yourself to others? Are you a weightlifter? Do you want to be stronger physically? Do you seek to be stronger mentally? Are you seeking to have power or authority over others? Why do you seek strength or power? Is it to boost your self-esteem?
Humans have sought power for thousands of years. It may be physical strength or mental strength or political power. We often seek it to outperform or to rule over others. Physical strength is rewarded with trophies and medals. Winners are put on a pedestal.
Those who seek power often desire to tell others what to do. It may be in our workplaces or in the political arena. Though many seek that power to make things better, many also seek it out of personal ambition, seeking personal glory. We seek the power for selfish reasons. But that does not please God.
The Psalmist tells us that God is not impressed by physical strength. And why should he be? He is the one who has given us the strength we have. We are to recognize that God has given us the body we have and give him thanks for it. Realizing God has blessed us to be who we are is a step in the right direction. Thanking him and using the talents he has blessed us with for his glory is the next step.
God honors those who fear him. Yes, that word means to be afraid. We may balk at that based on what we have been taught. Yet, it makes sense. When we realize the awesome power God has, we should be afraid. Our fear should cause us to submit to him and put our hope in him, since we also know he has our best interest at heart. Putting our hope in him and loving him because of his power and love for us is what pleases God.
I pray we all recognize God’s awesome power. I pray we submit to him. I pray each one of us will put our hope in him and love him with our whole heart. Recognize God’s power. Know that you cannot impress him. Submit to his will. Put your hope in God. Love God as he loves you.
Psalm 147:10:11
His delight is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner;
but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him,
in those who hope in his steadfast love.
Marty Pressey 