Let's Stay Weak!

2 Cor 12:9 is a hallmark verse of the Christian life. Paul, in talking about the thorn in his side and God’s apparent refusal to remove it, says this, “Each time He said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. So now I’m glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”

Paul’s affliction remained.

The Lord was determined to allow it to linger in his life.

But... there was a promise that the favor of Christ would be shown to him constantly. And by Paul having the support of his Savior, he would be able to bear the trial which he was asked to endure.

My commentary says this, “It is a sufficient answer to our prayers if we have the solemn promise of the redeemer that we shall be upheld and never sink under the burden of our heavy woes.” Our physical weaknesses demonstrate our true inability and quite possibly may serve God well. In our frailty, we just may learn to glorify God best!

1.) We gain humility. One of the greatest Christian character traits that we can possess is humility. My commentary says, “humility is one by the pressure of God’s hand upon us.” Humility is, after all, an act of submission.

2.) Weakness makes us dependent upon God. All throughout the Bible we learn that we are best prepared for life and fit for heaven when deep within our hearts we can say, “I cannot, but God can!” Ahh, the release of control is a radical gain of strength!

3.) Frailty cultivates character. Pain and frailty... weakness... affects our attitudes, and our behavior in profound ways. But they test our true commitment to Jesus Christ. “As the outward man parishes, the inward man is renewed day by day.” (2 Cor 4:16)

4.) Our weakness keeps us open to God. Suffering is a constant reminder of the need of God. “ The frail man proves the preciousness of prayer”, says one commentator. Paul, even in his own frailty, labored, “more abundantly than all of them (other apostles).”

To be weak is to have little physical strength. To be feeble. Unable to bear a great weight. Not strong. Soft. Possessing a wanting spirit. Not having force of authority. Accessible.

Let’s stay weak so His strength can shine forth!