It is you alone who are to be feared. (Ps. 76:7)
Expanded Passage: Psalm 76:1-12
My childhood friends used to talk about whose older brother was the strongest. We would compare muscles, height, weight, speed, and other attributes to come up with our conclusions. Whoever was determined to be the strongest was to be most feared. We had no hard data, only opinions.
The psalm writer knew God well enough to tell that no one should ever attempt to mess with God. He is definitely the strongest on any block. Look at the list from Psalm 26 that demonstrates God’s power and strength, even his wrath if you decide to toy with him:
- His name is above all names.
- He has the ability to dwell everywhere.
- He has authority over war, warriors, and weapons of war.
- He rules over nature.
- He rules over mighty warriors and their tools of war.
- He reigns supreme over all, including those who try to stand on their own.
- He rules both heaven and earth.
- He is sovereign over justice, and righteousness.
- He is the creator of love and loyalty.
- He governs over all rulers and kings.
- He holds all and all things right and good in his hand.
Unlike my childhood friends, the psalmist had a solid basis for drawing conclusions about who is most fearsome. We serve an awesome God who is worthy of our praise.
List ten things you love about God.
Jim Dunn is the president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University. He previously served as the executive director of the Church Multiplication and Discipleship for The Wesleyan Church.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
