 “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10)
If you’ve ever interviewed for a job, you’ve probably been asked, “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” We’re usually quick to highlight our strengths and how they fit the role, but we’re far less eager to admit where we struggle or need to grow. But in the verse above, Paul says that when he is weak, then he is strong. Not only that, but he’s happy about his weaknesses! How can that be? Paul knew that all the things God had revealed to him could easily lead to pride. To keep him humble, he was given a “thorn in the flesh.” While scripture never tells us exactly what that thorn was, it says it caused him enough suffering that he begged God three times to take it away. Instead of removing it, God responded, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). When we are at our weakest, God’s strength can shine through. The world wants us to think strength comes from being self-sufficient, capable, and in control. We try to hide our struggles and cover our insecurities, but God often works in exactly the opposite way. Sometimes God allows us to face circumstances that we don’t know how to handle. Our weaknesses become very evident to us and, possibly, to others. Like Paul, we pray for God to take it away. Sometimes He does. But sometimes He chooses instead to walk with us through it. Why? Maybe someone you know is going through something similar and needs to know they’re not alone. Maybe someone you know sees how God is bringing you through a difficult situation, and it strengthens their faith that God will bring them through theirs. Maybe it’s to learn to depend on God in ways we never would have otherwise. So instead of viewing weakness as something to hide, let’s try to see it as an opportunity to trust God more deeply and rely on His strength rather than our own. Because when we are weak, He is strong. And when His strength shines through our weakness, He receives the glory. This article has undergone ministry review and approval.
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Scripture Study: Isaiah 29:6-10
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