Embracing Weakness

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.

2 Corinthians 12:9

We live in a world where the norm is for everyone to share their strengths and accomplishments. The focus is on what we have mastered or conquered. Even when we’re asked to share our weaknesses, we often frame it in a way that makes us look good. For example:

Interviewer question: “What is your greatest weakness?”

Interviewee response: “I’m a perfectionist.”

That answer might land you the job, but what about other situations in life? What about times when we’re struggling spiritually yet shy away from being honest? Consider this scenario:

Friend 1: “I’m so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. How can I pray for you?”

Friend 2: “Praise the Lord, God is good. We’re fine. Just pray for peace and patience as I trust in his timing for a cure.”

On the surface, that might sound like a good answer. But what if:

Friend 2: “I’ve been praying to God for healing but he’s silent. I’m losing faith that God will ever heal me. I can’t worship. I can’t even pray.”

This type of response cannot be spun as a strength. It’s authentic and reveals the pain and hurt. We might give canned answers to hide our pain from others, but God knows what we’re going through, and he knows our inmost thoughts. In our struggle, pain, or discomfort, our relationship with the Lord can grow and reshape how we live our lives. In our greatest weaknesses and failings, God shows redemption and grace. How wonderful it is to be able to acknowledge our ugliest thoughts and feelings before God, and let his Spirit heal our hearts and his power transform our lives.

The Christian thinks his weaknesses are his greatest hindrance in the life and service of God; God tells us that it is the secret of strength and success. It is our weakness, heartily accepted and continually realized, that gives our claim and access to the strength of him who has said, “My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

Andrew Murray

Real true faith is man’s weakness leaning on God’s strength.

Dwight L. Moody

Deny your weakness, and you will never realize God’s strength in you.

Joni Eareckson Tada

For Further Reflection

1 Samuel 16:7; Psalm 46:1; Romans 8:26

Today’s Prayer

Father, thank you that I can be real with you. Thank you that my authenticity with you and people who truly care for me will not result in abandonment but rather an opportunity to watch you work in my weakness. Help me to remember that when I’m weak, I’m open to your strength. Amen.