Strength In the Lord
Awhile back I was watching an episode of American Ninja Warrior. The obstacles and challenges that these athletes conquer is quite impressive. They always give a short introduction about each competitor and share a bit of their life story and how they train.
One lady had a simple tattoo on her leg that referenced a bible verse. It caught my attention and I wondered what the passage must say that meant so much to her that she would have it permanently written on her body. The verse was Psalm 121 and it reads:
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” That woman found her strength in the Lord and we can do the same.
In 1 Samuel 30 the bible tells of when David and his men were returning home from a long emotional march from battle to find their village burned to the ground and their families taken captive along with all their possessions.
As you can imagine they were distraught and greatly distressed to point of wanting to stone David. He too had lost his family and possessions and now others were wanting his life as well. The word tells us that each one was bitter in spirit because of their sons and daughters, but David found strength in the Lord his God.
Have you ever felt that all was lost? The trials were too much? The loss to great? You’re not alone, these men felt the same way and yet David, their leader was showing them where to find strength to endure. You can too. Fill in the blank with your name and repeat it as many times as you need to.
But ______________ found strength in the Lord her/his God!
Just saying your name in that verse is so empowering! David modeled the pattern that lead to overcoming his situation. He turned to God and found strength in Him. Then he inquired of the Lord about how to proceed and trusted God’s leading as he stepped out in obedience.
- Finding strength in the Lord
- Inquired of the Lord
- Acted in obedience to God’s leading
David didn’t let the situation master him, instead he found strength in the Lord and sought His will. Then he acted on the divine assurance that was provided to him and God gave them victory in defeating the enemy and rescuing their families.
No doubt David’s faith in God’s divine word helped him find strength. The same can be said of you. No doubt ________________ faith in God’s divine word helped her/him find strength. The Lord has a word for you that will strengthen you and encourage you today. It’s found in Isaiah 41:10:
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
In seeking God, David received the promise that was later fulfilled of life and blessing and so will you.
My Prayer
Father, I thank you that our strength is found in You. No matter what we face we can always turn to You and know that You will give us the strength and wisdom we need in order to move forward. Your word gives us hope and boldness, assurance and peace. Help us to trust in Your word and step out in obedience so that we too will see Your promises fulfilled and live the blessed lives that You have given us in living in a relationship with You. In Jesus name, amen.
Where does my help come from?
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.