For he spoke, and it came to be;
Psalm 33:9 NIV
he commanded, and it stood firm.
This is a succinct summary of the first chapter of Genesis’ creation account. Repeatedly in that chapter, we find the formula, “And God said, . . . and it was so.” The power of God expressed in this verse is pretty astounding. God spoke into existence all that is.
I understand taking existing materials and giving them new forms. I built a retaining wall and hedge a few years ago. It took great effort to prepare the site, haul and assemble all of the retaining blocks, and plant the trees. But that bears no resemblance to what God did. He spoke, and what was not previously in existence came into being. He commanded, and it was firmly established.
But the significance of this verse goes beyond the creation of the universe. This God who created all that is via the power of his command is the same God we serve today. And he is every bit as powerful today as he was then. God is still at work in his creation and in his church, guiding them to their intended end.
And he is at work in my life as well. The God whose word brought the world into existence is for me (Rom. 8:31). Whatever he calls me to do, his power, at work in my life (Eph. 1:19), is sufficient to see it done. And no challenge I may face is too difficult for him.
And because of that, I can echo the words of Paul: “I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day” (2 Tim. 1:12b).
