Weakness

Weakness. We all have it, but we rarely ever show it. We are afraid that weakness will be cause for our rejection, a hindrance to that perfection we constantly seek. We think we can hide it and deny its existence, and then it will disappear... But there is no denying the FACT that we are weak. 

We are human. We sin. We fail. We are weak.

And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me (2 Corinthians 12:9).

God shows His power through our weakness. He shows us that although we are easily disheartened, we still have the greatest power in the universe supporting us. With this in mind, we can turn moments of weakness into moments of closeness with God. 

By openly accepting that we are in need of God's strength, we realize that we can't do it all on our own. Sometimes, the only way to make it through is to cling to God for dear life. God's grace is sufficient to relieve us of the weakness.

Nothing else can compare. Nothing, no person, no object, can ever bring us the true healing that God can. He alone knows our every thought. He alone can see through any mask of strength we put up to diguise our true weakness. He alone will accept us despite our sins and strengthen us to leave behind these sinful ways. Unlike humans, He will never disappoint us. 

Even now, says the LORD,

return to me with your whole heart,

with fasting, and weeping, and mourning

(Joel 2:12).

Why would God associate returning to Him with fasting and weeping and mourning? Weeping, especially, seems to signify weakness. A tear is so often associated with the cry babies, the weaklings who can't handle it. Why would God expect us to come crawling to Him with tears in our eyes? 

Because he knows WE CAN'T DO IT ON OUR OWN. We are imperfect beings. 

What is the point of giving up something for Lent? This sacrifice helps refocus our lives on God. If you are fasting, what will you most likely be thinking of? Food. It will easily dominate your thoughts. And by giving it up to God, each time you think of this hunger you are reminded of its purpose. You are reminded of Jesus's sacrifice, and therefore strengthened by the increased presence of Jesus in your life. 

Sacrifice isn't easy. We must put ourselves voluntarily in a position of weakness. Weakness is not comfortable. It is not enjoyable...But it has the potential to unite us to God in a profound way. Through this unification, God turns our weakness into strength. He turns the unconquerable mountain into a stepping stool to a more personal bond with Him. 

Do not be afraid to show your weakness. Some may not accept your for it...but God always will. He will accept you and love you more than anyone else can. Through your weakness, He will bring His power and love to perfection within you.