ARE WE STRONGER?
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “Shall we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than he?” 1 Corinthians 10:22, ESV
Theme: Considering God’s strength compared with our own weakness is reason enough not to provoke Him.
WOMEN’S LIB
You may not remember the Feminist Movement, but as a child of the early Sixties, I was all too familiar with it. As a believer, I also knew the Bible well. I knew that God had levels of authority set up, starting in heaven, through emperors, governors, husbands, and parents. I wasn’t rebelling against the establishment, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t strong enough or smart enough to take care of me! I bought into an “I can do anything” mindset.
In the early years of marriage, this translated into a battle of wills. We weren’t at odds over family decisions or spiritual matters. Instead, it was the little things that wore on us. I could lift my own suitcase into the trunk or overhead compartment. I could open my own car door and so many other things. Instead of accepting kindly-offered help, I was always out to prove I could do anything I put my mind to do. But to my husband, it seemed that I didn’t need him. Though he wanted to lighten my load as my helpmate, I was determined to do it all on my own. It caused a lot of frustration between us that was not necessary at all.
JEALOUSY AND DISAPPOINTMENT
Our verse of the day tells us that we can provoke the Lord to jealousy (or anger in a few translations) when we do things the world’s way or buy into its way of thinking. I am sure that He is frustrated with me and is jealous for a better outcome. He could have guided me to the best solution. Meanwhile, I try to solve my problems without seeking Him or asking His Spirit to change my thoughts and actions. It becomes a missed opportunity to release control and rely on God’s strength and help, just as it was with my husband’s support all those years ago.
One of my favorite verses reminds me of this principle: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7, ESV). When I replace “chariots” and “horses” with credit cards and IRAs, or I turn for protection to my security system and concealed weapon, I am taking upon myself the role that God has claimed for Himself. He is my Protector, Provider, Healer, and Comforter. Anything that I use as a substitute for Him in the situations of my life is idolatry and must be stamped out. Whether this is a novel, alcohol, or a shopping spree that I turn to in order to escape my worries, anything but God is sinful.
Make It Personal: Are you a “Can-Do” person? Is this a coverup for a lack of faith that God can and will carry you? We think of a capable person as a good thing – and it is – if you are in turn being carried and supported by the King of kings and Lord of lords. With His help, yes... you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13, paraphrased).
Pray: Lord, You are my everything. I thank You for my abilities, my physical strength, my mental capacity, the skills and talents with which You have blessed me. Help me never forget my Source. Help me rely on You first and turn to You first in every situation. Thank You for saving me and continuing to save me every day. In Your Name I pray. Amen.
Read: Psalm 68:4-10
Weekly Memory Verse: “(for you shall worship no other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God),” Exodus 34:14, ESV