Don’t be afraid of your weaknesses
I am learning that weaknesses are not our enemy. I recently heard Rich Wilkerson Jr. say that weaknesses are our protection, and this makes sense when our real predator might be pride. Honestly, I used to fear my weaknesses as I tend to want to be AWESOME at everything. As you can imagine, that is exhausting and brings a constant flow of shame and discouragement.
Lately, I am finding it helpful to be aware of my strengths and discover my weaknesses. For example, focus is a strength of mine, and I am also mindful that I can focus so wholly that I ignore the people who are more important than the task I am completing. We all have weaknesses that I believe are specifically designed for us. Consider the example we have in Paul.
Paul was aware of his “thorn” in his flesh. He says, “The extraordinary level of the revelations I’ve received is no reason for anyone to exalt me. For this is why a thorn in my flesh was given to me, the Adversary’s messenger sent to harass me, keeping me from becoming arrogant. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to relieve me of this. But he answered me, 'My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness.' So I will celebrate my weaknesses, for when I’m weak I sense more deeply the mighty power of Christ living in me. So I’m not defeated by my weakness, but delighted! For when I feel my weakness and endure mistreatment—when I’m surrounded with troubles on every side and face persecution because of my love for Christ—I am made yet stronger. For my weakness becomes a portal to God’s power.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 TPT
Here are three things to glean from Paul's confession (that any of us could write).
Our weaknesses more often are in our minds rather than physical. Even if we struggle physically, the battleground remains in our minds. Take note of where the "adversary" attacks your thoughts. Know that the Lord uses this to invite you away from arrogance and TO humility.
I tend to want to hide my weaknesses. The problem with this is that God is more deeply seen in my life when I expose them! Think about the life of Christ. None of the miracles are miracles without pain, suffering, and even death being brought to THE light. Therefore, CELEBRATE your weaknesses because a miracle might just be around the corner.
Jesus doesn't ask for your strength. He asks for your surrender. That's a relief. I used to think that God was so disappointed in my lack of awesomeness. But instead, He is just so tickled pink that I would bring Him all of my weakness.
He says His grace is sufficient, and it's actually MORE than sufficient. He doesn't just fill in the gaps, so everything is adequate. He shows off HIS power through us.
I can see His eyes twinkling when we wave that white flag. Can you?
~Karna Atkinson
