“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
Lord Jesus, as I meditate on these words of Paul, I vacillate between feelings of relief and sadness. As a young believer, I wasn’t taught to delight in weaknesses, but to get over them, get up, and get on.
It was all about “the victorious Christian life.” Overcoming, not underachieving; being more than conquerors, and never less than happy—these were the order of the day. It was a perfect spirituality for type-A personalities, “Tigger’s,” and performers. Why settle for sufficient grace when you can have replacement grace—getting rid of anything unpleasant in life?
Thank you for rescuing me from this and other misrepresentations of our life in Christ. The aroma of grace is released best through the broken places in our lives and stories. You are “gentle and lowly,” why would we want to be powerful and
As you continue to humble and gentle me, increase my compassion toward others in their weaknesses and brokenness. “Bruised reeds and smoldering wicks” loved your appearing because they sensed your welcome and kindness (Matt. 12:15-21). May that be truer of me. Velveteen Rabbits make the best friends.
You embraced the weakness of the cross so we can boast in our weaknesses and rest in your righteousness. What a profound, liberating, and hope-filled paradox. Thank you, Lord Jesus. In your name we rejoice and pray, Amen.
