Trusting in God, Not Human Strength

Scripture Reading: Ezekiel 29:6-7

"Then all who live in Egypt will know that I am the Lord. You have been a staff of reed for the people of Israel. When they grasped you with their hands, you splintered and tore open their shoulders; when they leaned on you, you broke and made their backs wrenched."

Reflection:

In Ezekiel 29, God rebukes Egypt for being an unreliable ally to Israel. Instead of being a strong support, Egypt was like a weak reed that broke when leaned upon. Israel had placed its trust in Egypt for security and protection, but Egypt failed them. This passage is a powerful reminder that placing our faith in human strength, wealth, or political power will ultimately lead to disappointment.

Many times in life, we look for stability in things that seem strong—our jobs, finances, connections, or even people we admire. While these things may provide temporary support, they are not infallible. Like Egypt, they can fail when we need them most. However, when we place our trust in God, we stand on an unshakable foundation.

Lessons from Ezekiel 29:

1. Human Strength is Limited – Egypt appeared powerful, but when tested, it failed. No matter how strong a person or institution may seem, they are still subject to weakness and change.
2. God Alone is Trustworthy – Unlike Egypt, God never fails. When we lean on Him, He upholds us with His mighty hand (Isaiah 41:10).
3. False Dependence Leads to Pain – Israel suffered because they put their trust in the wrong source. We experience unnecessary struggles when we rely on people or systems instead of God.

Personal Reflection:

• Are there areas in my life where I am relying on human strength instead of God?
• Have I experienced disappointment because I placed my trust in something that wasn’t secure?
• How can I shift my dependence fully to God today?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I have placed my trust in things or people instead of You. Help me to lean on You completely, knowing that You are my refuge and strength. Teach me to rely on Your wisdom, provision, and power in every area of my life. Strengthen my faith so that I may walk in confidence, knowing that You will never fail me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Step:

Today, take a moment to reflect on an area where you have placed too much reliance on human strength. Surrender it to God in prayer and ask Him to guide you in trusting Him more.