Strength comes from Hearing

Throughout previous studies we uncovered the many transformations that occur to the individual who chooses to draw near to the Lord and spend time in His Presence.  Another vital transformation that occurs in the life of that individual is the conversion from being self-reliant to God reliant, in reference to their strength. 

 

Often, we recognize and characterize Godly people by their strength.  Obviously, it is not their physical outward display of strength we refer to, but the inner strength, of their inner man.   I am quite certain that most of them, would affirm that the source of their strength is not found in themselves.  Pivotal moments in their lives have “trained” them to derive their strength from God. This training period is definitely characterized by a period where all previous sources of strength have diminished.  Various difficult circumstances have put them in a place of helplessness. I’ve spoken with many in this stage of their conversion who voice the same single common phrase “I feel like I barely have enough strength to make it through the day.” 

 

Yet, in these circumstances the Holy spirit teaches the individual to wait in stillness on God and to be granted his strength instead of leaning on their own strength.  When Paul found himself in affliction, he cried out to God and said take this away, but the answer he received was 

 

My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. (2 Cor. 12:9 KJV)

 

In other words, Paul, I want to give you my strength in place of your strength, but the only way to give you more of my strength is for you to experience your own weakness.  Don’t worry, my grace will see you through and will accomplish it.  When Paul discovered this, he declared

 

Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

 (vs. 10)

The Psalmist confirms the same thing: 

 

Blessed are those whose strength is in You, … As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs…They go from strength to strength…(Ps. 84:6 BSB)

 

Meaning, blessed are those who receive strength in You, when they go through the valley experiences of life they discover where the true source of strength lies, and this newly derived strength multiplies in them.

 

In the 10^th chapter of Daniel, is displayed the process of conversion we spoke about above, a sorrowful Daniel seeking His Presence,

 

In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks. (vs.2 KJV)

 

…I was left alone… and there remained no strength in me… (vs. 8)

 

… Yet heard I the voice of his words…my face toward the ground…(vs. 9)

 

… And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands.(vs 10)

 

… he said…, O Daniel,…, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright…. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling. (vs. 11)

 

… there remained no strength in me, neither is there breath left in me. (vs. 17)

 

… Then there came again and touched me one like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me,..(vs. 19)

 

… And said, .., fear not:… be strong,…, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.

 

 

Notice how his position changes in his presence, all resembling his inner strength. Daniel begins from a weakened position, flat on his face, displaying no resource of strength, in fact he admits “ there remained no strength in me.”  Yet as he continues in the presence of the Lord, and receives wisdom and understanding, he gains strength to the position of his knees and the palms of his hands.  Then again, he continues to receive more wisdom and understanding, and this time he is given more strength and is able to stand upright.  Then Daniel realizes that he was gaining strength all along from the hearing of his voice, therefore he began to urge him, stating “Let my lord speak…” for when you speak, I received your strength.  

 

 

 

 

Supporting texts:

 Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually. (1 Chr. 16:11)

I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.(Php 4:13)

 

Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city. (Ec. 7:19)

 

Their strength is to sit still. (Is 30:8). 

 

A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength. (Pr. 24:5)

 

…and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. (Luke 22:32)

Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. (1 Chr. 16:27)