“His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man; the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.”

Psalm 147:10-11
Having been involved in church ministry for over 30 years, I can let you in on a little secret: often there is behind the scenes “arm wrestling” between ministries over newcomers. Who gets them first, children’s or youth ministry? Men’s ministry or the greeters? The friendly “wrestling” is based on what we perceive a newcomer’s strengths to be. We typically evaluate others based on what we see of them outwardly. 

How does this fit with the fact that the Lord does not value strength or ability? According to the psalmist, He values our faith in His unfailing love. We have it upside down! Now, of course it is good and right to match up skills, interests, and needs in the church. But why do we put a premium on physical aptitude which the Lord does not consider to be of utmost importance? 

To put our hope in God’s unfailing love is to transfer trust from ourselves to Him. We acknowledge our limitations, our inability, and our need. The entry into fellowship with God is weakness, not strength; the entrance into Christian fellowship can be the same.

 



Scripture Focus

Psalm 147

Insight

Our ability level is temporary, but our identity is eternal.

Bible In A Year

  • Job 3-4
  • Psalm 44
  • Luke 7

RENEW Your Anchor Subscription Today