“He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord favors those who fear Him, those who wait for His lovingkindness.”
In every organization there is a tendency, especially among those with natural leadership skills, to take matters into their own hands. They live by an often unspoken mantra: “If it is to be, it’s up to me,” and use every tool at their disposal to get the job done… individual stamina and energy, effective delegation, research and organizational acumen, active solicitation, political maneuvering, and (if they’re smart) much prayer.
People so driven are often successful by the sheer force of personal effort. They receive ample acclaim at the conclusion of a project and are heralded as people who know how to “make things happen.” These leaders are motivated by the cheers of the crowd. They are compelled to succeed in exchange for the automatic accolades that come with a “job well done.” I know. I am one of these guys.
While “the strength of the horse” or “the legs of a man” in battle do not necessarily delight the Lord, there is nothing wrong with displaying a fierce (human) determination toward the completion of a goal. It’s okay, even commendable, to resist procrastination and fear, choosing instead to work hard and finish a project. Sometimes that’s what it takes. But not always.
“Be still, and know that I am God”
Psalm 46.10KJV
While “the strength of the horse” or “the legs of a man” in battle do not necessarily delight the Lord, there is nothing wrong with displaying a fierce (human) determination toward the completion of a goal. It’s okay, even commendable, to resist procrastination and fear, choosing instead to work hard and finish a project. Sometimes that’s what it takes. But not always.
There are times when everything that can be done has been done and no amount of additional effort will matter. My “horse” and my “legs” will carry me so far, but no further. I come to the end of myself and have no other option but to remain still and hope that “the Lord favors” me; and, “…having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6.13). Sometimes I just have to be still and stand still.
Faithful stand-stillness demonstrates the highest form of respect for the authority of Christ. A person who will “stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14.13f), “having done all” there is to do, is one who truly honors and fears the Lord. That is the person “the Lord favors.”
“Be still, and know that I am God”
Psalm 46.10KJV
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