Psalm 147:10

Psalm 147:10

Horses and legs!

We have a propensity, as human beings, to set great store by the greatest, the biggest, the strongest, the richest etc. In other words, if any of God’s creatures excel themselves and surpass their contemporaries, we respect them and honour them. That’s why sport is so compelling for many and why so much money is spent gambling on horses. Rich people claim superiority, as do extremely clever people and so it goes on, we live in a world where any kind of superiority earns accolades. God does not think this way, we cannot impress Him, buy or earn His respect just by being greater than others. Thus, a really strong horse might impress people in biblical times, especially if its owner was a soldier or a farmer, however, God is not impressed by the animal or by the girth of a warrior’s legs, or the muscular ripples of his biceps! All of this is simply man’s way of gaining attention and of course, lesser mortals or creatures are looked down upon and will never win medals or adulation from the public. 

This desire to impress has always been a feature in the church. The best speakers, the cleverest debaters, the wealthiest attendees, the greatest theologians, the strongest personalities are welcomed and lauded by congregations but if any human gift or ability is used to gain human status or power, then it is not of God. The only gifts that count are those He gives, by the holy Spirit, often to the least likely candidates. If men or women use their place in the body of Christ to gain notoriety or respect and popularity, they may impress their fellows, but they do not impress the Lord. Sadly, many denominations work by hierarchical systems where promotions and careers are eagerly sought. Some even give congregations the responsibility of viewing candidates to pick the best or most able or most popular option. That is not how God’s kingdom works, we only accept the roles that the Holy Spirit appoints us to and that the Lord has equipped us for. This takes time and prayer and fervent seeking of His will. 

 

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