Weak But Powerful

2 Corinthians 12:9 – Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. (NIV)

How do I boast about my weaknesses like this verse says? Now that I am in my seventies, there is all too much physical weakness to drag me down; let me count the ways! But, no, I will keep the list to myself, for who wants to be burdened with it? I can never actually boast about such things.

There is another verse that has been one of my favourites for many years. It also speaks of a strength that I have drawn on constantly: "I can do all things (everything) through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13 NKJV) Here is this marvellous strengthening again.

I have been a minister for many years, but in these retirement years, I wonder now if I really drew on this amazing strengthening that is available to all believers through the grace of Christ, or if I wore myself out trying really hard to get everything done. People would say, "Ask Iris to do it", and I would strive to comply. Was there another way that I missed: doing all through the strength given me through Christ? I think I drew on Christ sometimes, but did I live always by His strength? If I am really honest, I doubt it.

Just the other day, I heard someone talking on the television about the empowering that comes through receiving the grace of the Lord. I always thought grace was God's unmerited favour. Nothing I could do guaranteed receiving such help. It came freely. So, when I look at the grace of Jesus empowering me, it hits like a beacon of hope. Jesus is freely offering me His grace which empowers me to do all that He calls me to do! With this promise lifting me up, each day is a joy. Amazing things happen unexpectedly. Wonderful things happen because Jesus arranged them.

I am looking forward to seeing what Christ still has for me to do for Him. Even though I am now easily tired and arthritic and have trouble seeing through these eyes, nothing can stop me, for Jesus' grace is sufficient for all my needs. I feel like saying "Wow!" My physical weakness causes my soul to open the door of need, through which Jesus pours His power.

Will you join me in this amazing life, as we "boast all the more gladly" about our weaknesses, "so that Christ's power" may rest on us?

Prayer: Lord, we see the need all around us for Your power; there is so much pain. Thank You that Your gracious love makes it possible for us to live joyfully, filled with Your power. In You, we have power to get up in the morning with hope, power to give the helping hand to another, power to face this day doing what You call us to do. Lord, we give You a big "Thank You" for this power that fills us. Amen.