Today's reading

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. –2 Corinthians 12:10 NIV

March 17, 2023

My Weakness vs. His Strength

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. –2 Corinthians 12:10 NIV

Why is it that we go to such lengths to proclaim our strengths, actually bragging about them, while hiding our weaknesses? The Apostle Paul explains in His letter to the Corinthians that when we are weak, the Lord is strong. The Lord explained to him in 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLV), “My power works best in weak people.” The story of Joni Eareckson Tada, a paraplegic since the age of 17, illustrates this insight well. While diving into shallow water, she broke her neck and never walked again. Joni has never hidden the depth of her depression, despair, discouragement, and disappointment. In fact, she has been quite open about it all.

On a daily basis, many people are needed to get her up and dressed for the day. Her pride went out the window a long time ago. Yet, Joni’s faith in our Heavenly Father’s love, care, and ability to use her, in spite of her weaknesses, has encouraged many. Why hide our weaknesses when it’s the one common bond shared by all? When we are weak, He IS strong. He will use our weaknesses to showcase His strengths. So, rejoice; you’re not done yet. Your weaknesses have not disqualified you, nor have they made you unfit. In fact, they qualify you to walk in faith. Let His strength be your comfort.

prayer focuses

Pray that the Lord will be magnified in your weakness.

Praise and thank the Lord that you are a vessel in which His power can be demonstrated.

music

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about the

Author

Brenda Beattie

Brenda Beattie is a retired letter carrier and an active Chaplain for the USPS. She and her husband retired to Bradenton because they loved their church, Bayside Community Church. She has self-published two books, "Finding Sacred Ground In The Daily Grind," and "The Case Of The Missing Letter." She is also a repeat author for "Chicken Soup For The Soul." Her articles appear monthly in the "Mountaineer," a postal publication. Her hearts desire is to encourage and to give hope.