STRONG GOD
strong (adj): marked by great power, having great resources, effective, forceful, mighty
God (noun): the Being perfect in power, wisdom, and goodness who is worshipped as creator and ruler of the universe
“For a child has been born–for us! The gift of a son–for us!
He’ll take over the running of the world. His names will be: Amazing Counselor, Strong God, Eternal Father, Prince of Wholeness. His ruling authority will grow, and there’ll be no limits to the wholeness he brings…” Isaiah 9:6-7
Jesus is our Strong God. As mighty as the Father.
Here in this verse, God declares that he is extending to his son Jesus all ability, all influence, all victory, and all power.
And what my mind starts to wonder about all this power that Jesus was given long before he came to live among us.
What does it mean for those of us who are needing him, trusting him today?
We can read and remember…
Hundreds of stories in the Bible teach us about the amazing, surprising, life-changing power of God. Miracle-working power that crashes into regular life and turns things upside down. A mighty, loving power that ignites souls and soothes them at the same time.
Old Testament stories of creation, prophecy, faithfulness, rescue, and triumph.
New Testament stories of a virgin birth, healing and provision, the calming of storms, the changing of hearts, and a monumental resurrection from the dead.
Jesus is still this powerful. And for those of us who belong to him, this power is available and real. Not to make things perfect for us, but to give us a glimpse of his glory. Not to cater to our every desire, but to assure us of his faithful love.
Who compares with you in power,
in holy majesty,
In awesome praises, wonder-working God?
You stretched out your right hand and the Earth swallowed them up.
But the people you redeemed, you led in merciful love;
You guided them under your protection to your holy pasture. Exodus 15:11-13
We still need Jesus to do this. To “stretch out his hand and swallow up” our enemies–the things that keep us from the freedom he offers.
He was more powerful than the Egyptians, more powerful than giants, lions, fiery furnaces, storms, leprosy, blindness, betrayal, temptation, and death.
He is still more powerful than these, and anything we could possibly face today. Cancer. Debt. Depression. Difficult relationships. Grief. Temptation. Unexpected change and loss and pain.
And we can trust that no matter how weak we feel, no matter how rough the storm, no matter how terrifying the threat; our strong God will prevail. And ultimately, this mighty power will conquer death forever and make everything new.
Invite Him in: If you belong to him, you have this Jesus-power inside of you. Don’t worry if you don’t feel very strong right now. He knows what you need help with, and he is faithful to show up at your weakest point. His power in your toughest times will reveal his glory and assure you of his love.