Our Strength Grows Out of Our Weakness

"True strength comes from being weak in oneself and strong in the Lord."  - John Calvin, French theologian, pastor and reformer (1509-1564)

One of the hardest things to do is to admit our weaknesses. Many of us have grown up under the misconception that doing so exposes our vulnerabilities to the world.

Consequently, we labor under misbelief, in our feeble efforts to be self-reliant, that we have the capacity to find the strength, peace, and resilience we truly seek. 

But what if I were to tell you that God's grace is sufficient to meet every need, and His power is perfectly demonstrated in human weakness? 2 Corinthians 12:9 informs us that our limitations are not obstacles, but platforms for God's power.

This message from the Lord to the Apostle Paul, appears at first to be a clear contradiction: God's power is "made perfect in weakness." How can our weaknesses be the place where God's power is most apparent? 

To get a better understanding of the frame of reference for this verse, read 2 Corinthians 12:7-11. There, Paul mentions a "thorn in the flesh" that he appealed to God to remove (vv. 7-8).

However, God's response was not to remove it, but instead to provide grace and demonstrate that His power is made perfect in weakness. Essentially, God's answer instructs us that our weakness is not a sign of failure, but rather an opportunity to see His power made manifest. 

Paul reacted by accepting his weaknesses and even boasting about them, because it meant that the power of Christ could "rest on" him, or be displayed through him. This provides a dramatic shift in thinking about suffering. 

It indicates that trials can be a driving force in promoting spiritual growth and an intimate connection with God. Thus, believers can and should find strength and glory in their weaknesses. 

Paul understood that because of his weakness, he was more reliant on God's strength, making God's power more evident and complete in his life and ministry. 

Likewise, our being weak reveals our dependence on God, allowing His strength to be made perfect through us, and not our own capabilities. Nineteenth century American minister and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson put it succinctly when he said, "Our strength grows out of our weakness." 

Finally, the message in 2 Corinthians 12:9 is one of hope and comfort. Being aware of our need for Him allows us to receive His abundant grace, which is sufficient for any challenge, and in the end brings glory to God.

Reflective Questions: 

• What's your understanding of: God's grace is "sufficient?" How is this different from how the world sees strength?
• Identify some of your "weaknesses" or "thorns in the flesh."
• What does relying on God's strength rather than your own mean to you?

Scripture: Psalm 73:26; Isaiah 41:10; Mark 12:30; Ephesians 3:16 ; Philippians 4:13

Prayer: "Dear God, in our moments of doubt or fear, remind us that your power is made perfect in our weakness. Help us to surrender our burdens to you, casting all our cares upon you, for you care for us deeply. Amen."

In God's name,

Amy