Delighted To Be Weak

by Bob Gaudi

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
–Psalm 46:1

I have always struggled with Paul’s writing from 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 where he tells us of the Lord’s word to him when he was struggling with “a thorn in his side.” In verse 9 Paul says “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.” I have read that passage and related passages many times but could never wrap my mind around the meaning. I just did not get it.   

Recently I was reminded of this verse while studying a related Biblical topic, and understanding finally came to me. As humans we deal with suffering on a daily basis in one way or another. That suffering, whether minor or significant, is just part of daily life in our imperfect world. Dealing with that suffering is the issue; whether it ends in rescue from the suffering (full deliverance) or it continues and we have to live with it.

Living with ongoing suffering is the hard part and this is where the power of Christ comes in. When we realize and admit we cannot contend with suffering on our own, we can surrender it all to our Lord. Jesus, through the unlimited grace of God, then gives us His strength to get through our suffering. Simply said, give it to God.

While we may never escape from certain types of suffering, by surrendering totally to our Lord we can rely on Him and His strength to get us through it. Through His grace and power we who are weak are empowered. 1 Peter 5:6-19 says it well—we all suffer, so cast your anxiety on God because He will restore us. In John 16:33 Jesus tells us there will be trouble in the world but peace in Him because He has overcome the world.

Trouble and suffering will always be with us. As Job said in Job 2:10b: “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” How we choose to deal with trouble is up to us. Turn to the Lord and trust in the Lord. In Him is our strength and deliverance. If you have some time, read Psalms 34 and 46…be still and know that He is our God and our strength!

Thank You, Jesus for being my strength and my Savior. Thank You for always being there for me and never failing to provide me with everything I need to deal with the reality of life. Help me to live for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.