Conclusion of Does God's Power Make Him Unapproachable?

Imagine meeting a man so huge and powerful that you feel intimidated by him. However, In time you notice that he seems gentile. He is ever ready and eager to use his power to help and protect people, especially the defenseless and vulnerable. He never abuses his strength. You see him slandered without cause, yet his demeanor is firm but calm, dignified, even kind. You find yourself wondering if you would be able to show the same gentleness and restraint, especially if you were that strong! As you come to know such a man, would you not begin to feel drawn to him? We have far more reason for drawing close to the Almighty Jehovah. Consider the full sentence that is the basis for the title of this chapter: "Jehovah is slow to anger and great in power." (Nahum 1:3) Jehovah is not quick to use his power against people, not even the wicked. He is mild-tempered and kind. He has proved to be "slow to anger" In the face of many provocations. - Psalm 78:37-41.

Consider Jehovah's self-restraint from a different angle. If you had unlimited power, do you think you might, at times, be tempted to make people do things your way? Jehovah, with all his power, does not coerce people to serve him. Even though serving God is the only way to everlasting life, Jehovah does not force us into such service. Rather, he kindly dignifies each individual with freedom to choose. He warns of the consequences of bad choices and tells of the rewards of good choices. But the choice itself, he leaves to us. (Deuteronomy 30:19, 20) Jehovah simply has not interest in service performs out of coercion or out of morbid fear of his awesome power. He seeks those who will serve him willingly, out of love. -2 Corinthians 9:7.

Let us look at the final reason why we need not live in dread of Almighty God. Powerful humans tend to be fearful of sharing power with others. Jehovah, however, delights in empowering his loyal worshipers. He delegates considerable authority to others, such as his Son. (Matthew 28:18) Jehovah also empowers his servants in another way. The Bible explains: "Yours, O Jehovah, are the greatness and mightiness and the beauty and the excellency and the dignity; for everything in the heavens and in the earth are yours. . . . In your hand there are power and mightiness, and in your hand is ability to make great and to give strength to all." -1 Chronicles 29:11, 12.

Yes, Jehovah will be pleased to give you strength. He even imparts "power beyond what is normal" to those who want to serve him. (2 Corinthians 4:7) Do you not feel drawn to this dynamic God, who uses his power in such kind and principled ways? In the next chapter, we will focus on how Jehovah uses his power to create.

Next time: Creative Power -"The Maker Of Heaven And Earth"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002