Definition of "strength is the inner resolve or physical ability to accomplish an endeavor, influence an outcome, or prevail against conflict (i.e. Logos Bible Application). In Joshua 1:6, God consistently encouraged Joshua to "be strong and courageous." David said, "...the Lord is the strength of my life..."(Psalm 27:1b). In Psalm 27:14, David also said to "wait on the Lord and He shall strengthen thine heart..." There are two types of strength: Physical and Spiritual.
For one to gain physical strength, physical effort must be applied. That is, one must dedicate themselves to a rigorous physical activity program. The program must be planned and include running, lifting various types of weights, swimming, etc. Along with exercise, they have to eat the right kind of food, (protein, veggies, water). If they stay committed to their physical strength program....and IF they don't have a heart attack in the process, the results of their commitment will be displayed by the contour of their physical appearance. I call this "noticeable strength" because their efforts are validated when they receive comments on the noticeable change in their leg and arm muscles. The more comments they receive, the harder they strive to maintain their strengthening program.
For one to gain spiritual strength, they must also endure a rigorous program. Unlike the physical strength program, our spiritual strengthening program is NOT an option! This program will include seasons of joy and pain. Persecution and affliction. Enjoyment and misery. Good days and bad days. Mountain tops and valley lows. We don't get to CHOOSE a certain time for this program, but we can choose to eat and feast on the Word of God and prayer. We MUST stay consistent on reading the Word of God and praying because there will be a morning when you wake up..."pow"...here comes the weight of pain. We don't need an alarm clock to tell us when affliction is on the way to strengthen our faith! We don't have to pay an annual gym fee to get access to our workout equipment because we have faith in the Lord and the Holy Spirit sealed in us and that is ALL we need to get us through.
Unlike physical strength, we rarely hear others validate our spiritual strength. I call this "Silent Strength." Others can see and know what we are going through, but because we don't look like what we are going through, there is no need for validation.
Those of us who are chosen to be placed in the rigorous process of Silent Strength understand that God is our source and fortress. We know that "the joy of the Lord is my strength!" (Neh. 8:10). When we finally get to our eternal home, our desire is to hear our Father say..."Well done, my daughter, Sandra! You've been faithful to the purpose I ordained for you before you were born. Come on up a little higher and dine with Me!"
Hallelujah!
For His Glory....
Written by Sandra Kelley (6/21/2024)
Comments