My Strength Comes from God

“I look up to the mountains; does my strength come from the mountains?  No, my strength comes from God, who made heaven, and earth, and the mountains” (Psalm 121:1-2 MSG).

I’ve been rushing around all morning, taking care of tasks, putting check marks next to items on a to-do list that never seems to end.  All morning I’ve had this nagging sense to spend time with my God, to pray and read and invite Him into my day.  But the need to accomplish that one last thing kept pushing our time away.

Finally, I stop and sit down.  I still feel no deep need to get in time with Him.  The next to-do item is like a nagging fly buzzing around me.  I wonder, Maybe God just wants me to get stuff done today?

I pray, and I ask God to send His Spirit front and center in my mind and heart.  I write: I know you are what’s needed but I feel this call to action and I’m not sure if it’s You or the enemy. I can only assume You wouldn’t squash my time with You since You are my strength, my rock, my clarity and the giver of focus, efficiency and self-discipline. There are things that need to get done, but ultimately what I truly NEED is You!! I’m taking a deep breath and offering up to You my cares.  I choose to focus in on You alone right now, Papa.

A song lyric comes forward in my mind and I play it.  The opening lines are, “I look up to the mountains; does my strength come from the mountains?  No, my strength comes from God, who made heaven, and earth, and the mountains.”  

I engage with God. I worship Him and pray through Psalm 121. My shoulders relax. My anxiety begins to melt away. I leave refreshed with new strength and vision for this day firmly in hand.

The to-do list is still there, but it no longer owns me. What anchors me is the One who made heaven, earth, and the mountains. He is my true strength, my steady rock, my source of peace. Whether today brings productivity or interruptions, victories or setbacks, I can walk forward knowing I am not alone—God is right here, beside me, and that is enough.

FOR FURTHER THOUGHT:  If you’re like me, many, many things compete for your interest each day. Psalm 46 tells us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble” and, “Be still, and know that I am God … the God of Jacob is our fortress.”

I want to encourage you to stop, even if briefly, in those moments of busyness and acknowledge God has you. Just saying the name of Jesus has power! Make space for Him today and watch what He can do.

And if you need help quieting the noise, let worship lead the way. A simple song of praise can shift your focus, soften your heart, and open your spirit to God’s presence in a way words alone sometimes can’t.

Interested in a song connected to this scripture? Check out Shoulders by For King & Country.

PRAYER: My vision for each day can get so blurry, Lord.  Yet you ARE my strength and there is nothing more important than this moment with you right now.  Thank You for Your patience with me.  Let me be still and sense Your presence.  I know You are what carries me through each day.  My help comes from You and You alone.  May You guide this day, not me.  Thank You for reminding me to put first things first.  Amen.   

ABOUT BARB LOWNSBURY

Barb is a speaker, author, and entrepreneur. She holds Bachelor's Degrees in International History and Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Education. Barb has spoken at conferences and taught classes throughout the U.S. on topics including faith, relationships, leadership, and courage through trials. Her book, Using What’s Broken to Boldly Shine, is a powerful read on transformation through adversity. Her blog focuses on providing people with everyday encouragement and strength. Barb serves as the Executive Director for The Dented Fender Ministry and runs a successful real estate and development company. She and her husband currently reside in Dayton, Ohio.

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