Strength in Weakness

We often hear that trials make us stronger and, in a sense, that is true. 

For the Christian though, what is really happening is not that *our* strength is becoming greater but that *Christ’s* strength is becoming greater in us. Although this is counter-cultural, understanding it keeps us from boasting. 

As Jesus said to Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect (or ‘fulfilled”) in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

As we learn to be content in whatever situation we find ourselves in, we find that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:11-13).

I did not fully realize this until I came to the very end of myself and all that was left was the grace of God. During that time, I had to rely on God in a fuller way than I had ever experienced before in my life, and do so moment by moment.  

This is a very hard lesson to learn (I think especially for men) but, in the end, it’s actually liberating. Much more is accomplished for the kingdom when you let Christ’s strength work in and through you. 

As Paul said after this encounter with Jesus, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.”