How does Psalm 102:23 reflect God's sovereignty over human life and strength? Psalm 102:23 — The Text “He has weakened my strength on the way; He has shortened my days.” God Holds Our Strength in His Hand - The psalmist traces the ebb of his vigor directly to God—“He has weakened my strength.” - Scripture presents strength as a gift God can give or withdraw at will: - “He gives strength to the weary.” (Isaiah 40:29) - “My power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) - Dependence on the Lord for daily stamina means any loss of power is neither random nor merely physical; it proceeds from a purposeful, sovereign act. God Numbers Our Days - “He has shortened my days” affirms that lifespan is fixed by the Creator: - “My times are in Your hands.” (Psalm 31:15) - “All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139:16) - “You do not even know what tomorrow will bring… Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills…’” (James 4:14-15) - The psalmist’s lament still acknowledges God’s right to call life’s conclusion whenever He chooses. Sovereignty Echoed Throughout Scripture - Deuteronomy 32:39 — “I put to death and I bring to life.” - Job 12:10 — “The life of every living thing is in His hand, and the breath of all humanity.” - Acts 17:25-26 — God “gives all people life and breath… He determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.” - Matthew 10:29-30 — Not even a sparrow falls “apart from your Father,” and every hair is numbered. Encouragements Drawn from Psalm 102:23 • Rest: Knowing God rules over strength and lifespan frees us from anxiety. • Humility: Achievements and health are sustained only by His ongoing permission. • Urgency: Limited days urge faithful stewardship of time, gifts, and relationships (Ephesians 5:15-16). • Hope: The same God who governs mortality promises resurrection life in Christ (John 11:25-26). Living It Out - Begin each day conscious that breath and energy are divine loans. - Thank Him for today’s strength; trust Him if He withholds it. - Make plans, yet hold them loosely, submitting every timeline to His will. |
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