January 17, 2004

THE ARM OF THE LORD

"Who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?" (Isaiah 53:1, NKJV).

This memorable messianic prophecy of Isaiah introduces yet another meaningful symbolism of Jesus Christ. Here He is portrayed as the arm of the Lord. The arm represents physical power and strength as in the case of the heavyweight boxer, the weight lifter, or the sturdy blacksmith. The arm is used as a symbol of strength, power, and security. The phrase "the arm of the Lord" occurs thirty-six times throughout the Old Testament. It is used to describe the active, creative, and saving energy of God (see for example, Psalm 98:1; Jeremiah 27:5).

Employing this powerful symbolism to the coming Messiah, Isaiah asks, "To whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?" (Isaiah 53:1, NKJV). As one reveals his arm as a sign of strength, so is Christ revealed as God's instrument for the salvation of the human race. Jesus, the arm of the Lord, defends us in our conflicts, supports us in our weakness, and gives us security in life's tempests, Sir Isaac Watts, in his magnificent hymn based on Psalm 90, expressed it beautifully: "Sufficient is thine arm alone, and our defense is sure." Christ is all we need when life's battles rage. Not only is Christ our strong arm of defense, he is also our secure arm of protection and security. By his strong arm He embraces His people in the secure grip of infinite love. This blessed truth of the believers' security in Christ is further reiterated by Jesus' pledge, "Neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand" (John 10:28, NKJV). That's why we are safe in the arms of Jesus.

To help us appreciate the security and defense of the arm of the Lord, Ellen G. White offers this comment: "If we lay hold upon the arm of Infinite Power, it will sustain us through every conflict and discouragement of life, and will finally place a crown of glory upon our heads, and bring us to share the eternal reward of the righteous."--Signs of the Times, August 6, 1885.

My Prayer Today: Lord, may I never let go of Your mighty arm. Amen!