“One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.” Psalm 62:11, 12
God’s power. Do you think about that very often? Whenever we have extreme weather, such as a strong storm, or temperatures that are very hot or very cold, I’m reminded that what we experience is just a small taste of God’s power. Maybe you’ve experienced a storm such as a tornado or hurricane. As mighty as that storm was, it was nothing compared to the strength and power of our God. We’ve all seen evidence on the news, if not in person, of strong storms that have caused terrible destruction. But that’s nothing compared to God. His power is so much greater that He could not only cause destruction if He so chose, but He has the power to create. With a word, He spoke creation into being. He didn’t even break a sweat. He spoke, and there we were. All the universe, all the plants, all the animals and people. That’s power! Compared to that kind of power, a strong storm seems more like a little child having a temper tantrum.
This verse goes on to say that He is loving. Once again, I see this in extreme weather. The forecast for this week calls for very cold temperatures. I’m not looking forward to it but think of how cold it could get if God removed His hand of protection. Think of how bad that storm could have been if God wasn’t holding it back. If He can create with a word, think of the destruction He could cause with a word! But instead of destruction, He gives us protection because of His unfailing devotion and kindness. That’s true whether the storm we’re weathering is in the atmosphere or in our hearts.
I love to be reminded that I serve a God of great power. After all, what good what it do to serve a wimpy god? We’re sometimes guilty of trying to create a god in our own image. When I realize that I’m doing that, I have to ask myself why? Why would I want a god who is no stronger than I? I want the true God, the God who rules over heaven and earth, the God with the strength and power to carry out His promises. I also want a God of love, a God who cares about us and is working all things to our good. Mostly, I’m so thankful that He’s both. If he were only powerful, I’d be shaking in my boots. But if He only had a powerless love, He’d be more like a cosmic teddy bear – nice to snuggle with but not really good for much else. But He’s both. So as temperatures drop this week, thank God that He has power over all creation including the weather, and also thank Him that we can warm ourselves in His loving embrace.