Notes on Hope Devotional

Weakness is Not Wasted

2 Corinthians 12:9, 10 (NIV)
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. 10 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.”

These verses are a dichotomy in what we are taught as a culture.  We are told to hide our weakness and create a facade to be strong. What do you mean weakness is a virtue to brag about?
And gladly, nonetheless?

Daily, I’m reminded of my weakness. Just today, I tried to open a jar of salsa and was aware of my physical weakness. As I looked at my desk with files and piles, I’m reminded of my limitations and the expectations that I should be able to do it all. These words from Apostle Paul can be a marquee for our minds. In our weakness, through Christ’s power, we are made strong.  Weakness is not wasted. God’s “power is made perfect in weakness.” 

Pastor and author Max Lucado says, “When He says we’re forgiven, let’s unload the guilt. When He says we’re valuable, let’s believe Him.  When He says we’re provided for, let’s stop worrying. God’s efforts are strongest when our efforts are useless.”

When we are aware of our weakness, it’s an open door to allow God to supply His grace, His power, His strength, and His wisdom. We don’t have to be strong. God is. We can let God display His power in our weakness as we receive His grace to depend on Him to supply what we need. 

Dear Lord,
Thank You for this promise from Your Word…You know and see our weakness.
We ask You to display your grace and strength in us.
Thank You for Your grace.
In Jesus Name,
Amen