Remember the children’s song, “Be Careful Little Hands What You Do”? Have we learned the lesson yet or do we need to start singing the song again? Someone has said, “There is more power in the open hand than in a clenched fist.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie.]
Solomon put it this way:
“(21) If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, (22) for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.” (Proverbs 25:21-22 ESV)
Rather than engaging in retaliation, the power of a loving open hand has great potential to impact the conscience of others. The clenched fist only serves to add fuel to the conflict.
Paul quoted this principle from Proverbs in his letter to Christians at Rome. (Romans 12:20) He then capped off the quotation with the statement of the power to exercise where we read. . .
“(21) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21 ESV)
The power in the use of our hands is not in taking vengeance (that belongs to God), but rather in extending a kindness or meeting a need. Jesus exhorted us to love our enemies and put our hands to use in praying for them. (Matthew 5:44) Oh, how powerful open hands made submissive by prayer can be!
Hands can be used in many ways. They should be used with caution. May we use ours to the glory of God and the benefit of others!
Have a great day EXERCISING LOVE’S POWER!
Carl
