Power Belongs to God

January 30, 2021

“Those of low estate are but a breath; those of high estate are a delusion; in the balances they go up; they are together lighter than a breath. Put no trust in extortion; set no vain hopes on robbery; if riches increase, set not your heart on them. Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God, and that to you, O Lord, belongs steadfast love. For you will render to a man according to his work.” - Psalm 62:9-12

Everything David speaks about in these verses are things he experienced in his own life. David knew what it was to be a person of “low estate” because he came from humble origins as a shepherd, and he knew what it meant to be a person of “high estate” because he was the king of Israel. At the end of the day, our psalmist understood that God has the final word and is the ultimate source of power.

But then David goes a step beyond reminding us that God is who they will answer to. He also reminds everyone, both “low” and “high,” that the God of power is also the God of steadfast love. These are not passing qualities that God has, or simple character traits: they form the essence of who God is. He is powerful - period, always, no matter what. He is loving - forever, unwaveringly so. God’s power and love never fade or fail.

When speaking of God’s power, it’s important to remember his steadfast love because his love is what sets him apart from any other examples of power in the world. To say that power belongs to God without remembering his love can accidentally cause us to view God’s power as tyrannical, angry, or spiteful. If not for the reminder of his love, we might shape God’s power into what we want it to be rather than an accurate depiction of who he is.

Power belongs to God, but so does steadfast love. You cannot have one without the other, and there is great comfort to be found in that truth.

Reflection:
Have the events of the past year, or even the past month, caused you to feel smaller and more powerless than you’ve perhaps ever felt before? Surrender these feelings to God and meditate on the idea that power belongs to a God of steadfast love. Regardless of how it might look or feel right now, he will hold all people in power accountable, and we can rest in his unwavering love.