Study 78

Text: Psalm 22

STRENGTH IN THE MIDST OF SPIRITUAL CONFLICT

In any kind of a conflict, physical or spiritual, strength is sorely needed. How wonderful it is to know that we can find all the strength we need in the Lord! The psalmist cries out to the Lord as his strength.

"But You, O LORD, do not be far from Me;
O My strength, hasten to help me."
Psalm 22:19

Let us consider other texts where God as "Strength" was mentioned.

"I will love You, O LORD, my strength"
Psalm 18:1

"The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,
My God, my strength, in whom I will trust;
My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold"
Psalm 18:2

"I will wait for You,
O You his strength;
For God is my defense"
Psalm 59:9

APPLICATION OF THE IDEA OF STRENGTH FROM THE LORD

How do we apply the idea of strength in spiritual conflict? Let us consider the following thoughts:-

1. The Lord is a God of Great Strength

This must be our starting point! We must come to Him as a God of great power and might.

2. The Lord is able to give us special strength

This idea is well borne out in a text found in the book of Isaiah.

"He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.
But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings as eagles,
They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."
Isaiah 40:29, 31

3. Challenge to wait upon the Lord for renewal of strength

There will be times when we may have feelings of weariness or even weakness. But we need not think that this sense of enervation is a permanent one. We may come confidently to the Lord and ask Him to renew our strength. He will do just that! It is then up to us to harness that special strength He gives to enter into spiritual battles successfully.

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~

Released 5th June 2005, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore