MIGHTY - GENTLE

devotional for Sunday 2/12/12

We often think of things as either mighty or gentle. Yet, there are things in this life that are a combination of power and tenderness. Horses weigh an average of 1,100 pounds and at peak condition their rippled muscles can burst forth to move their massive bodies forward at amazing speeds. Yet, they can be so very gentle that even a young child or tiny animal is not hurt by their velvety muzzle.

Our God also is an interesting combination. He is all powerful and mighty yet gentle and merciful.

See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Isaiah 40:10-11 NIV

God's omnipotence is actually what gives him the ability to be so gentle. He has the power to overcome the greatest evils of this world, to conquer death and to put Satan in hell. And it is precisely because he is all-powerful that he can be all-loving, pay for our sinfulness, and give us mercy and forgiveness. Without being that mighty, he could not be that gentle with us.

Dear God in heaven, thank you for your strength and your compassion, for your might and power as well as your grace and forgiveness. You are the one who is able to do all things. You are just and yet you are merciful. Please help me to remember your gentleness with me as I try to deal with the world with the same understanding. May I be a faithful witness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

written by Jan Andersen