This psalm speaks to the power and strength of God, whose voice thunders over the waters, topples trees, flashes fire, strips the forest bare. And how does God use this mighty power? To hurt and destroy? Not at all. Verse 11 tells us God gives strength to God’s people and blesses them with peace.
As followers of Jesus, we’re told that we are filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. The question is how we will use it. Will we use the strength and power that is within us to hurt and destroy? Or will we use it for blessing and for peace? In this passage, the words in yesterday’s reading from Isaiah come to mind. “Do not be afraid.” God has the power to destroy, but because of love, chooses instead to create and to bless. There is nothing to fear when it comes to God.
In prayer, thank God for strength when you need it and ask God to help you in becoming a peacemaker.