The Lord Increases Our Strength

Scriptures:  (II Corinthians 12:10b) For when I am weak, then I am strong.
(Isaiah 40:29) He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might, He increases strength.

Throughout my adult life, I have constantly witnessed others expressing an inability for doing well. Therefore, they tend to sit out on many opportunities in serving others. Those individuals complain of not being physically able, unable to speak eloquently, neglecting to go outside the walls of the Church facility to minister in any given capacity. I myself have formerly been among this group; however, that behavior diminishes as I grow spiritually, trusting in the Lord (Prov.3:5). I am not advocating that believers should take risks at anything. We should allow the Holy Spirit to guide and direct our paths (Proverbs 3:6).

Apostle Paul was a teacher, writer of many books of the New Testament -- some while in prison, and he had a thorn in the flesh (II Corinthians 12:7-10). He was so bothered with this ailment as it led him to  pray desperately for its removal -- only to learn that God caused him to live with it the rest of his life  (II Corinthians 12:9). The Lord’s answerer was “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.

The Apostle Paul came to a conclusion that he must come to appreciate his thorn as a weakness through which Christ’s power might be more clearly displayed. (II Corinthians 12:7).  “There was given him a thorn in the flesh.” (special favor given by the Lord to His saints) (Galatians 3:21); (Ephesians 3:6); (I Timothy 4:14) How interesting? It was God who gave Paul such a terrifying weakness, a chronic illness that he would teach, preach and labor with him throughout his later life on earth. He acknowledged that this weakness was truly a gift from God. A gift that enabled him to experience God’s grace, His presence, and power, in ways he would never have experienced otherwise.  Is that your testimony?

Dearly beloved, when tragedy strikes know that God does give His own strange gifts to His saints for His divine purpose and will. As you serve, you’ll discover a depth to your relationship with the Lord that you otherwise would never have known  (II Corinthians 12:10).  For when I am weak then I am strong. This strength is known to make weakness a triumph and a joy.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I admit to holding myself back for fear of failure. As I now meditate on Your Word and commit to constant praying, spiritual growth is inevitable. For when I am weak, You increase my strength.  Then I am strong. I desire to experience Christ’s divine power more and more as my relationship with Him grows. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(by Novella D, Carpenter)