Defining the Real Superheroes

Daily Devotional – Sunday, January 15, 2023
Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.
Proverbs 16:32 (NIV)

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, a mischievous person suggested that just one renowned American movies star would easily take on the Russian army and save Ukraine. Are Hollywood stars the real superheroes we need in the world?

Honouring Society’s Heroes

Such is our fascination with Hollywood stars that we think they are invincible. They can attack and defeat any army. These ‘immortal’ beings always emerge victorious. They are simply not ordinary human beings.

This enthrallment with heroes is a relic of human history. Those who led their people to war against intruders or helped to conquer their rivals were adored. If they captured villages, towns and cities, they guaranteed themselves an enduring place in history books.

Better a Patient Person than a Warrior

King Solomon appreciated the elevated place of heroes (like his father, David) in society but he gave more prominence to a different kind of protagonist. The wise man wrote, “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.” (Proverbs 16:32).

The contrast in this verse is remarkable. Warriors and patience are not synonymous terms. We also do not associate superheroes with self-control. Why does Solomon accentuate these traits above human gallantry?

I Discipline My Body

King Solomon recognizes that there is a more fierce battle within the human mind than human-to-human combat. To refuse to react in kind when provoked and to remain in control when circumstances demand an emotional response is the stuff that defines real heroes.

To conquer oneself and negative habits accumulated over time requires more effort and discipline that fighting an army. Paul, a mighty warrior in the spiritual sense, had this to say, “I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:27, Berean Study Bible).

Defining the Real Superhero

Are you in control of your thoughts and emotions at all time? Can you remain calm under provocation? How do you react when in a crisis? How do you handle victory, failure and flattery? Your reaction defines you as a real superhero or otherwise.

Prayer
Holy Spirit, give me patience and self-control that I may become a real Christian superhero