Scripture
II Corinthians 12:9-10
9 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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
In this ever-changing and chaos filled season of our lives, we are often left feeling hopeless. We see our own weaknesses and issues rising to the surface. Confused by what is going on around us, we realize that no matter how much we try, we still don’t seem to get it right.
What is weakness? Paul shows us in verse 10 what he means by weakness. In this passage, weakness isn’t a sin issue that he has, but it’s hardships, insults and persecution. Things that when they happen to us, make us look weak. Things that when our pride steps in, make us want to fight back. And “pride cometh before the fall”… people!
Paul pleads with God to remove these weaknesses, but yet, boasts in them while he has them. Not to bring glory to himself but to bring glory to Christ. The past few months have been challenging for all of us. Paul declares for us all to be content in our weakness, our hardships and our persecutions.
As Christians we can choose to defend our pride and fight for ourselves or we can lay down our pride in humility to Christ and allow His strength to be enough. When the world insults us, Christ is enough. When our beliefs are challenged, Christ is enough. For the sake of Christ, are you willing to be content in your weakness to allow Christ to be glorified?
Reflection & Application:
When faced with weaknesses, as described by Paul in verse 10, how are you responding? Do your words and actions bring glory to Christ or does your pride try to steal that glory for yourself?
This week, be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.
Prayer:
Father God, humble us so that we can allow you to be glorified in our weakness. Forgive us when our pride stands in front of your strength. Jesus, we know that your strength is enough for us but we often forget that in our actions and words. You are enough for us. Strengthen us this week so that our words and actions can bring glory to you. In your powerful name – Amen!