“The Lord does not delight in the strength of the horse: He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord takes pleasure in those who reverence Him, in those that hope in His mercy” (Psalm 147:10,11).
Who doesn’t love the strength of a horse? The Lord made them strong, elegant, and fearless in war (Job 39:19-25), yet that’s not what delights the Lord.
We also love to watch elite athletes. Their level of fitness makes us admire their dedication, perseverance, and discipline. Yet these strengths dissipate and are short-lived. Therefore, the Lord takes delight in a strength that will last and overcome the world… those who trust in Him.
The world looks at those who trust in Christ and think of it as a weakness. God looks at those who trust in Him and see it as a great strength – above war horses, above elite athletes – for they have sided with God against the world, against their peers, against unbelieving family, and even against themselves. This is a spiritual strength, a bravery and valor, that is unmatched, eternal, and worthy to stand among the heroes of the faith.
Those who trust in the Lord will be the first to acknowledge their own sins and weaknesses. This is a strength because “most people will proclaim each one their own goodness: but a faithful person (who will admit their sins) who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6). Honesty is a rare strength indeed!
Can you imagine what the Lord sees as He looks down at this world, just as He looked over Jerusalem from the Mt. of Olives? He looks for those who want eternal life, who will consider His love for them at the Cross, who will take His hand, choose eternity, and walk with Him in truth against the world. That’s strength! And that delights His heart.
(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)
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