Small word, big meaning

“I believe in God the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.” We say those words every time we say the Apostles’ Creed in church (and the Nicene Creed is very similar). Yet how often do we stop to consider what they mean? In particular, what are we saying when we describe God as ‘almighty’? It is a relatively little word, but it has an absolutely massive meaning. It means that God is ‘all mighty’ and able to do all things (apart from those things which contradict his nature) – after all, he did make heaven and earth.

 

Here are some of the things that the New Testament says God is able to do for his people: “He is able to save completely.” He “is able to make all grace abound.” He is “able to keep you from falling”. “He is able to help those who are being tempted.” He is able to “build you up.” He “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” [See Hebrews 7:25, 2 Corinthians 9:8, Jude 24, Hebrews 2:18, Acts 20:32, Ephesians 3:20].

 

God is our Father, and so willing to give us everything we need for life and godliness. And this Father is almighty, and so able to deliver what he wills. Our faith will run aground either when we trust in our own ability, or when we fail to trust in God’s ability (and often both at the same time). Focusing like this on God’s mighty power will help us to avoid both kinds of unbelief and instead to trust in God, our almighty Father.