"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him" (II Chronicles 16:9).

 In our text today, we learn something about the character and desires of our God. Some Christians have the mistaken impression that God is hesitant to intervene in a powerful way, or that His preference is to allow the natural course of things to carry on, only occasionally performing small "tweaks." In fact, God is eager to demonstrate His mighty strength.

 Asa had impatiently bought the world's help. "And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said unto him, Because thou hast relied on the king of Syria, and not relied on the Lord thy God, therefore is the host of the king of Syria escaped out of thine hand" (II Chronicles 16:7). Too often believers are like Asa; hurrying out to take on debt to meet a need rather than waiting for God's provision.

 We note how certain communities can even limit God's power: "And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief" (Matthew 13:58).

 Mighty acts are not merely for a bygone era like the Old Testament period or the early days of the church. We should be employing God's promise like David did: "And now, O Lord God, the word that thou hast spoken concerning thy servant, and concerning his house, establish it for ever, and do as thou hast said" (II Samuel 7:25). God never intended His promises to be treated like miser's gold. God is none the poorer for us giving Him the opportunity to work mightily. We glorify God when we patiently wait for Him to work. "Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord" (Psalm 27:14). DW