Strength

In the biblical context, strength is often understood as both physical and spiritual fortitude. It is a quality attributed to God and is also a gift bestowed upon His followers. The Bible frequently emphasizes that true strength comes from reliance on God rather than on human capabilities.

1. Divine Source of Strength: The Bible consistently portrays God as the ultimate source of strength. In Psalm 28:7 , it is written, "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped." This verse highlights the believer's dependence on God for strength and protection.

2. Strength in Weakness: The Apostle Paul speaks of strength being perfected in weakness. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 , Paul recounts the Lord's words to him: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." This paradoxical concept teaches that human weakness is an opportunity for God's power to be displayed.

3. Moral and Spiritual Strength: The Bible also speaks of strength in terms of moral and spiritual resilience. Ephesians 6:10 exhorts believers to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power." This strength is necessary to stand firm against spiritual adversities.

4. Strength through Community: Ecclesiastes 4:12 states, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." This verse underscores the strength found in unity and community, reflecting the importance of fellowship among believers.

Success

Success in the Bible is often defined not by worldly standards but by faithfulness to God's will and commands. It is closely linked to obedience, wisdom, and the pursuit of righteousness.

1. Obedience and Success: Joshua 1:8 provides a clear link between obedience to God's Word and success: "This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do." Success is portrayed as a result of diligent adherence to God's instructions.

2. Wisdom and Success: Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." Here, success is associated with trusting God and seeking His wisdom rather than relying solely on human understanding.

3. Righteousness and Success: Psalm 1:1-3 describes the blessedness and success of the righteous: "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked... He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does." Success is depicted as the natural outcome of a life rooted in righteousness.

4. Eternal Perspective on Success: The Bible encourages believers to view success from an eternal perspective. In Matthew 6:19-20 , Jesus instructs, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." This teaching shifts the focus from temporal achievements to eternal rewards.

In summary, the biblical view of strength and success emphasizes reliance on God, obedience to His Word, and the pursuit of righteousness. These qualities are seen as integral to a life that honors God and fulfills His purposes.