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I started reading a book called Grace, the power to change by Dr. James Richards and as I was reading before bed last night a sentence jumped off the page and landed in my heart.
We think we are supposed to be strong for the Lord instead of strong in the Lord.
Grace, the power to change by Dr. James Richards page 47.
I read that same sentence several times and asked the Lord in prayer to help me see and feel that difference. I knew it was a profound statement, but I could not fully unpack it.
We think we are supposed to be strong for the Lord instead of strong in the Lord.
I continued to read but kept coming back to that thought, the difference between those two simple words, FOR and IN. Then right before bed as I meditated on that sentence, I tried to imagine the difference.
I imagined the image of a person standing tall, with strong shoulders, determined stride, moving forward clutching a bible under their right arm. Then I imagined the image of a person standing tall, with strong shoulders, determined stride, moving forward their right arm extended, holding the hand of a young child who walked just a few paces behind, leading them, shepherding them, protecting them. When I am strong for the Lord, I am that first image, when I am strong in the Lord, I am the child.
Did it hit anyone else as it hit me? Just as Paul said
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:10-12 NKJV
I want to be strong in Christ! You lead my Lord and I will follow. Speak Lord, for your servant, is listening (1 Samuel 3:1-10). Help me when I try to go it alone, remind me that I am only made strong in You. Fortify my heart, strengthen my mind and let me see the beauty of being led by my shepherd, protector, Savior, and King. -Amen