Acknowledging Weakness, Experiencing Strength!!!

Isaiah 40:29 (MEV)

He gives power to the faint,

and to those who have no might He increases strength.

2 Corinthians 12:1–10 (MEV)

Doubtless it is not profitable for me to boast. So I will move on to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ over fourteen years ago—whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven. And I knew that such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows— was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible words not permitted for a man to say. Of such a person, I will boast. Yet of myself I will not boast, except in my weaknesses. For if I desire to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But now I resist, lest anyone should think of me above that which he sees me to be or hears from me. And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me, lest I be exalted above measure. I asked the Lord three times that this thing might depart from me. But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. So I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in hardships, in persecutions, and in distresses for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

We should be in touch with their strengths, as well as their weaknesses.

According to Paul there is a time to be strong in the Lord…

Ephesians 6:10 (MEV)

Finally, my brothers, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

Likewise there is also a time to glory in our sufferings…

Romans 5:3–5 (MEV)

Not only so, but we also boast in tribulation, knowing that tribulation produces patience, patience produces character, and character produces hope. And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

In 1 Cor. 12 Paul is describing to us a struggle that is nothing short of tormenting! It was so difficult that he would plead with God 3 times to take it from him. In the midst of all his suffering Paul is learning Christlike leadership! He’s learning to find God’s strength in the midst of his weakness.

4 things that we know about Paul's thorn…

Paul asked 3 times for it to be taken from him.

God wouldn’t take it because it was serving His purpose - Keeping Paul humble.

God’s grace was all Paul needed in order to endure it.

God’s strength was revealed through the struggle.

Christlike believers will find that their weaknesses are also God’s greatest opportunities!

You might ask yourself…

How aware am I of my weaknesses, struggles and limitations?

Have I considered how God wants to use my weakness, as well as my strengths?

So what’s the thorn that you're struggling with tonight? How has it changed your life as a believer and leader?

Making it Count… Paul described in this scripture the process of his struggle. Through the frustration and discouragement and pleading with God to change his situation, Paul would finally come to a point of resolve. It happened when God said “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in in weakness!” It’s such a freeing moment for Paul. It’s a grace moment!

For what weakness are you going to have to trust God with today? For what weakness are you in need of grace for?