We’ve each been tasked with bringing more life and goodness into the world. And we accomplish this in part by freely offering the strength given to us – our unique talents, gifts, and abilities. As such, the particular expressions of our strengths will vary, but we can remain soulfully strong all the same.
Masculine strength is often thought of in terms of the physical. And while certainly it includes this, it’s not limited to this. The physical can be seen as a symbolic representation of the strength we should all possess and offer from the depths of our soul. And it’s this soulful or holistic strength that truly blesses and brings good to others.
For instance, strength of character carries greater weight than mere strength of body. But this is not denying there’s a place for raw physical strength as well. Both are needed.
And we shortchange the strength we do have just because we are not a fitness model, mechanically savvy, or as charismatic as the next guy. To be sure, it’s fine when we possess these gifts. But it’s a mistake to assume being strong depends on these things.
For example, some people reflect God’s strength through their strong minds, their ability to communicate ideas to others, or through their knack to cultivate beauty in its many different forms. Still others might be good at bringing people together, casting a vision, or discerning the best path forward.
Whatever it looks like, it’s a soulful strength whenever we’re using the gifts God has given us to bring more life and goodness into the world. And we’re only considered weak when we hold back or otherwise become passive.
In the end, remember God doesn’t judge your strength by outward appearances alone. Rather the call is for a soul strength and simply offering the unique gift God has blessed you with.
Photo by Joe Gardner on Unsplash
