Power Belongs to God

Core Scripture:
“God has spoken once, twice I have heard this: That power belongs to God.” (Psalm 62:11, NKJV)

1. Contextual Background:

• Psalm 62 is attributed to David, written during a time of distress (possibly Absalom’s rebellion)

• The psalm contrasts human frailty with divine sovereignty

• Verse 11 serves as the theological climax of the psalm

2. Key Theological Themes:

A. Divine Sovereignty

• Power is inherent to God’s nature (omnipotence)

• All other power is derivative and temporary

• Contrasts with human weakness (vv. 9-10)

B. Divine Reliability

• “God has spoken” – emphasizes God’s trustworthiness

• The double affirmation (“once, twice”) underscores certainty

• God’s power is consistently available to believers

C. Comprehensive Dominion

• Includes power over:

  • Nature (Job 38-41)

  • Nations (Daniel 4:35)

  • Spiritual forces (Colossians 2:15)

  • Personal circumstances (Romans 8:28)

3. Practical Implications:

A. For Personal Faith:

• Encourages complete dependence on God

• Provides comfort in trials (v. 1-2)

• Fosters patience in waiting on God (v. 5)

B. For Daily Living:

• Warns against trusting in:

  • Wealth (v. 10)

  • Human strength (v. 9)

  • Political power (v. 9)

• Calls for humility before God

C. For Corporate Worship:

• Basis for praise (God’s mighty works)

• Foundation for prayer (appealing to God’s power)

• Motivation for service (empowered by God)

4. New Testament Connections:

• Jesus’ demonstration of divine power (Matthew 28:18)

• The Holy Spirit’s empowering of believers (Acts 1:8)

• The Church’s confidence in God’s power (Ephesians 1:19-21)

5. Contemporary Applications:

• Challenges modern idolatry of human achievement

• Corrects distorted views of power as domination

• Offers hope in seemingly hopeless situations

• Encourages proper stewardship of delegated authority

Conclusion:
Psalm 62:11 presents a foundational truth for all generations – that ultimate power resides exclusively with God. This reality should shape our worldview, inform our decisions, and anchor our hope. In a world obsessed with power dynamics, this verse calls us to radical dependence on the only true source of power, while responsibly exercising whatever authority God delegates to us.