Strength to All

“Both riches and honour [come] of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand [is] power and might; and in thine hand [it is] to make great, and to give strength unto all.” (1Ch 29:12 AV)

This is David’s prayer at the coronation of Solomon as his successor.  The general genealogies of David’s sons are also given.  Strength to all can be seen in one of two ways.  The first being a confident declaration of Solomon’s favor from God regardless of his position and origins.  David’s statement could be seen as Solomon, initially believed to be unable to lead, would be strengthened by God regardless of the baggage he possessed.  However, it can also be thought of as an encouraging word to his other sons.  In other words, regardless of one’s calling or responsibilities; even if it isn’t as extensive as being a king, God will still strengthen.  This is how we want to consider this truth this morning.

If one were to read thick theology books, the student would discover a general application of the imparted strength of God.  One writer might mention that God’s strength refers to life and the ability to live.  God would give that strength to varying degrees to all created beings.  It is by him we move and have our being.  Another might observe that strength is given to all that they might choose to know Him.  The purest among us would note that this statement only applies to Solomon.  Still others would point out that it would seem God has the ability to give strength to all, yet He may not.  They would point to the statement as being one of possibility.  Not one of reality.  This is discouraging and foolish.  Yes, God blessed based on need and situation.  God will not strengthen those in unrepentant sin so that they might continue it in.  God will not strengthen someone who is serving outside of God’s will and give him abilities he would not necessarily posses to work contrary to God’s will.  But we can take as a promise the statement above as it was stated by David.  We can consider his heart and motive.  We can consider what lies ahead.  We can be encouraged that the promise of God’s strength can and does apply to us.

There is a saying that is common in pulpits.  God never sends where He does not equip.  In other words, if our God asks us to live and serve, He will provide the means by which we can do this.  All we need to bring is a willing heart.  I can tell you by personal experience this is absolutely true.  This preacher has been is several tight spots where human ability was completely insufficient.  If it weren’t for the strength and grace of God, this preacher would not have survived.  This promise is particularly important to remember when strength is in small supply.  This promise above is a guarantee.  God will strengthen as He calls.