Definition and Overview:

In the biblical context, "strength" often refers to physical power, moral courage, or spiritual fortitude. It is a quality attributed to God, who is described as the ultimate source of strength for His people. "Action," on the other hand, involves the deeds and works that are carried out, often as a response to divine command or guidance. Together, strength and action are intertwined in the life of a believer, as strength from God empowers individuals to act according to His will.

Biblical References:

1. Strength from God:
· The Bible frequently emphasizes that true strength comes from God. In Psalm 28:7, David declares, "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped." This verse highlights the reliance on God for strength and protection.
· Isaiah 40:31 states, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint." This passage assures believers that God provides renewed strength to those who trust in Him.

2. Strength in Weakness:
· The Apostle Paul speaks of strength in weakness in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me." Here, Paul acknowledges that human weakness is an opportunity for God's strength to be displayed.

3. Strength for Action:
· In the Old Testament, God often provided strength for His people to accomplish specific tasks. For example, in Joshua 1:9, God commands Joshua, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." This command is coupled with the assurance of God's presence, enabling Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.
· Nehemiah 8:10 encourages the people with the words, "Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." This verse connects joy in the Lord with the strength needed to carry out His work.

4. Action as a Response to Faith:
· James 2:17 emphasizes the necessity of action in the life of faith: "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This underscores the belief that genuine faith naturally results in deeds that reflect God's will.
· In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that love and compassion must be demonstrated through action. The Samaritan's strength to act in kindness and mercy is a model for believers.

5. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit:
· Acts 1:8 records Jesus' promise to His disciples: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The Holy Spirit empowers believers to take action in spreading the Gospel.

Theological Implications:

Strength and action in the Bible are not merely human attributes or efforts but are deeply rooted in a relationship with God. Believers are called to rely on God's strength, which is made perfect in their weakness, and to act in accordance with His purposes. This divine empowerment enables them to overcome challenges, fulfill their calling, and live out their faith in tangible ways. The interplay of strength and action reflects a life of obedience and service, grounded in the assurance of God's presence and power.