Steroids are all the rage these days, aren’t they? (Pun intended.) Lots of talk about who has and who hasn’t used them. Plenty of denials. And big debates over whether some individuals’ new world records really mean anything.
It matters to us because our inner sense of fairness demands an even playing field. It doesn’t seem right for someone to secretly use a chemical strength-enhancer and then give us all the impression that it was purely by natural strength that he trounced his competitors.
Would you believe the New Testament encourages us in the use of steroids (strength-enhancers)? It does.
Of course, steroids aren’t all bad. There are many beneficial ways medical professionals use steroids to promote healing and recovery.
Our word steroid comes from a family of Greek words including sterros and steridzo, which have to do with making someone or something strong, firm, solid, and established.
The apostle Paul prays, “May the Lord steroid your hearts so you will be blameless and holy…” 1 and, “May the Lord… steroid your hearts in every good work and word.” 2
We don’t like to admit it, but often our spiritual hearts just aren’t up to the job. And the consequences can be serious. So that’s why the Lord stands ready to infuse us with a strength-enhancer.
Feeling a bit weak in the heart? Finding your own grit and determination inadequate? Cry out to the Lord for Him to strengthen your heart. That’s the kind of invitation He always accepts.
2 2 Thessalonians 2:17