God's Glory Church

“My strength is exercised in weakness.” — 2 Cor. 12:9

As a child, I considered adults to be wise and infallible. “They always know what to do. One day, when I become an adult, I will always know what to do too,” I thought. Well, that “day” came many years ago, but I still often don’t know what to do. Be it illness in the family, be it problems at work, be it conflict in a relationship – such moments shatter all illusions of personal control and power. And I have only one option left – to close my eyes and whisper: “Lord, help.”

The apostle Paul understood this feeling of helplessness. The “thorn” in his body, which could have been a physical ailment, caused him a lot of frustration and pain. However, it was through her that Paul felt God’s love, His promises and blessings, which are quite sufficient to endure and overcome his difficulties (2 Cor. 12:9). He realized that personal weakness and helplessness do not mean defeat. If they trust God, they become instruments for His work in these circumstances (vv. 9-10).

Just because we’re adults doesn’t really mean we know everything. Of course, we grow wiser with age, but our weaknesses often reveal how powerless we really are. Our real strength is in Christ: “When I am weak, then I am strong” (v. 10). To truly grow is to know, trust, and submit to the power that comes when we realize that we need God’s help.

What difficulties forced you to admit your own helplessness? How to obey God’s guidance?

Heavenly Father, thank you for being my help and strength.

Author: Karen Huang