An Unorthodox Source of Strength

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, April 16, 2024
In returning and rest, you shall be saved. In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.
Isaiah 30:15 (NKJV)

It is interesting how God’s ideas of strength and victory differ from ours. From a human point of view, we demonstrate our strength by using force. For example, when provoked, we respond by inflicting pain on our enemies. We believe that we will look weak if we fail to retaliate.

In Quietness Shall be Your Strength

That is the same approach we take when dealing with personal challenges. When facing tough times, we work hard to overcome because we believe that is the only way out. The more we strive, the more likely we are to emerge victorious.

Well, there is some truth in that belief, but God introduces a paradigm shift when He says, through Prophet Isaiah, “In returning and rest you shall be saved. In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15). God wanted His people to return to Him and trust Him to fight for them against enemy nations.

An Unorthodox Source of Strength

Sadly, the Jews opted to trust in their horses (verse 16), and God warned them that they would meet with doom (verse 17). How ironical that when we strive with our own strength, we end up losing, yet God has invited us to surrender to Him in quietness and confidence for us to win!

Today, as you reflect on the challenges you face, tap on this unorthodox source of strength like the Israelites did: “Do not be afraid. Stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again, no more forever. The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” (Exodus 14:13-14).

Prayer
Almighty Father, I am tired of striving without you. Fill me with quietness and confidence as you fight for me.