But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2Corinthians 12:8–10 (NIV)
The Bible does not “spin” the flaws and weaknesses of its heroes. Abraham lied. Hosea’s wife was a prostitute. . Jacob lied. John Mark deserted Paul. Peter rebuked God! Noah got drunk. Jonah seems like he was basically a racist.
Elijah burned out. Jeremiah was depressed and almost suicidal. Thomas doubted. Moses had a temper. Even David, one of God’s beloved friends, committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband murdered. (Is it safe to say, we might all feel better about ourselves after reading these?)
Flawed people? Yes! However, all these people teach us the same message. Every human being on earth, regardless of their gifts and strengths, is vulnerable, and must remain dependent upon God. (Sin usually results when we don’t.)
The pressure to present an image of ourselves as strong and spiritually “together” hovers over most of us. We feel guilty for not measuring up. It is easy to see someone’s post on Facebook or Instagram and feel “less than.”
All of us are human and have weaknesses.
The apostle Paul seemed to struggle with God not answering his prayers and removing his “thorn in the flesh.” However, he still thanked God for his brokenness, knowing that without it, he probably would have been an arrogant, apostle.
He learned, as we all must, that Christ’s power is made perfect only when we are weak.
Brokenness or weakness in your life today can present an opportunity for God’s power to be demonstrated.
Blessings,
Thora
Great devotional, Thora. Last night in our small group we were discussing the disciples running away when Jesus was captured in the garden of Gethsemene & Peter’s betrayal. It is comforting to know that we all have weaknesses but forgiveness abounds with God. Thanks for reminding me today to keep leaning on His strength when I face difficulties & allow His love and power to carry me through the day.
Thank you so much for sharing this and giving me a timely reminder of God’s word and His presence in my life – especially in times of struggle.
In a small group I was in the leader would say “strong work”, I echo the saying and add strong word.
Thank you Thora, for the reminders that we are all in “The same boat” different positions in the boat, but the same one nevertheless. We ALL need a Savior, and that’s why He came – Thankfully, to do what we could not do. What Love!