Proverbs 18:14 - Homiletics

Strong in spirit

This thought is near akin to that of Proverbs 17:22 , where the medicinal properties of a merry heart are commended. But there is some difference between the two. Both ascribe vital energy to the inner life, and commend such a cultivation of it as shall conquer weakness and suffering; but the verse now before us treats of vigour of spirit, while the earlier passage commends cheerfulness.

I. A MAN 'S TRUE STRENGTH RESIDES IN HIS INNER LIFE . Samson was a weak man, although he had bodily strength, because he had not strength within. St. Paul was regarded as contemptible in bodily appearance ( 2 Corinthians 10:10 ), yet he was a hero of fiery energy and rock-like steadfastness. He could say, "When I am weak, then am I strong" ( 2 Corinthians 12:10 ). The true self is within. All real weakness or power, failure or success, must ultimately spring from this true self. Therefore the first question is as to the condition of the inner life. Those people who live only in the outer experiences do not yet know the deeper meaning of life. We have all to learn how to cultivate the powers of the spirit.

II. STRENGTH IN THE INNER LIFE CAN SUPPORT EXTERNAL INFIRMITY .

1 . Weakness of body. No doubt the normal condition of health would be one of mens sana in corpore sano. But when that is not attained, mental health will do much to counteract the evil effects of bodily disease. The mind has so great power over the body that some forms of functional disease are actually cured through mental influences, as in what is called "faith healing." The will to live is a great help to recovery from an illness. A crushed and broken spirit too often brings the body into a condition which is the despair of the physician. Higher considerations tell in the same direction, and spiritual health—though, perhaps, not what is meant in our text—will sustain, under disease, if it will not lead to bodily cure.

2 . Temporal trouble. Misfortune can be borne by a brave, strong spirit; while a crushed, feeble spirit succumbs under it.

3 . Spiritual infirmity. It is difficult to resist the frailty of our own souls. But when we cultivate our better selves we are best able to overcome infirmities of temper, selfishness, etc.

III. STRENGTH OF SPIRIT IS A DIVINE GRACE .

1 . A gift of God. He can make the weak strong. "He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might he increaseth strength" ( Isaiah 40:29 ).

2 . An acquisition of faith. "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength" ( Isaiah 40:1-31 :81). It is possible for the weak to become strong, because all can "wait upon the Lord." No grace is more needed, and an grace proves itself to be more fruitful.