How can we cultivate reliance on God's strength in challenging situations? Drawing Strength from Psalm 18:35 “You have given me Your shield of salvation; Your right hand upholds me, and Your gentleness exalts me.” (Psalm 18:35) What David Discovered • God’s protection is personal: “Your shield.” • God’s power is steady: “Your right hand upholds me.” • God’s manner is tender: “Your gentleness exalts me.” Together, these phrases paint a picture of strength that shelters, sustains, and lifts us. Practical Ways to Lean on That Strength • Remember the shield—daily confession of God’s salvation – Say aloud: “Lord, You have saved me; therefore, You will guard me.” – Tie it to Ephesians 6:16: “In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith…” • Grasp the right hand—intentional dependence – Begin tasks by acknowledging, “Father, uphold me; I can’t do this alone.” – Echo Isaiah 41:10: “I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” • Trust His gentleness—allow God to lift, not mere self-effort – Relinquish control in prayerful surrender: “Exalt me in Your way, not mine.” – Link to 1 Peter 5:6: “Humble yourselves… that He may exalt you in due time.” Replacing Self-Reliance with God-Reliance 1. Identify pressure points—where anxiety spikes, note them. 2. Insert a scriptural promise—match each pressure point with a verse (e.g., Philippians 4:13; 2 Corinthians 12:9). 3. Act in faith—speak, step, and plan believing God is upholding you. 4. Review outcomes—journal how His strength showed up; reinforce trust. Keeping the Flow of Strength Fresh • Stay in the Word: daily intake keeps the shield polished. • Cultivate thankfulness: gratitude turns attention from weakness to His might. • Seek supportive fellowship: godly friends remind you of the right hand that holds you. • Worship regularly: praise magnifies God, shrinking challenges to size. Living Psalm 18:35 Today Allow God’s shield to cover you, His right hand to hold you, and His gentle lifting to place you where you could never stand on your own. |
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