15. Devotional: Is the Lord's Hand Waxed Short?

Devotional: Is the Lord's Hand Waxed Short?

Author: James Smith (1802-1862)

 "Is the Lord's hand waxed short?" Numbers 11:23

    WE MUST NEVER TEMPT THE LORD. The Israelites did that in the wilderness and kindled the wrath of the Lord. Be not faithless like them: only trust and not doubt. He has all power: is anything too hard for the Lord? Why then are we cast down? Because we do not believe His word, depend simply on His faithfulness, and expect all we need from His hand. He was displeased with Moses when he questioned His power, and He is displeased with us when we doubt His love, distrust His providence, or ask, "How can this thing be?" Whatever may be your difficulty, trial, or want, plead with the Lord, and confidently expect deliverance; and if any temptation arises to weaken your faith, rouse your fears, or disturb your tranquility, meet it with this question, "Is the Lord's hand waxed short?" Beloved, look not to the hand of man, but simply look to the hand of God; man may disappoint you, God will not. He is faithful that promised. He is a God at hand. He will be near you throughout this day; His hand is able and ready to help you; therefore trust, and be not afraid.

In heaven, and earth, and air, and seas,

He executes His firm decrees;

And by His saints it stands confessed,

That what He does is ever best;

Then on His powerful arm rely,

And He will bring salvation nigh.