Trust Meনমুনা

Strength in the Quiet Moments

Read: “Each time He said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Think: I was encouraged and revived. Excited to live my Saturday. It was short-lived. An irritation with a coworker, some selfish thoughts and attitudes and just like that, my glad heart gave way to resentment and frustration. Just one hour from rejoicing, I was now wanting to shut down and leave.

I knew something needed to change. So I did the only thing I knew to do - talk to my Jesus.

Tears fell. I unburdened my heart to the One who knew my thoughts already. I was willing to be weak. I didn't speak thanksgiving; I mumbled and complained, but I wasn't pretending. I felt alone and discouraged. I poured this out into my Jesus' ear. I think these moments alone, these seconds of realness, are the ones that Jesus longs to be a part of, because they are the real me. But He doesn't want me to stay there. I can't be okay with just wallowing in my hard moments. His grace is sufficient. I took a deep breath, and I didn’t try to pretend I was strong anymore. I thanked Jesus for everything I could think of and pressed into who He says He is - strong. The transformation was not magical. I had to swallow my pride and have a difficult conversation with the coworker who hurt my feelings. I had to work a long day while feeling tired and alone. But Jesus was with me. His strength was sufficient. Praise Jesus for daily, moment-by-moment grace.

Apply: What is an area of weakness that you are unwilling to admit and lay at the feet of Jesus? What is a characteristic of God’s character that allows us to overcome said weakness? In what areas are you experiencing the grace of God currently?

Prayer: Jesus, you are strong, and we are not. May we humble ourselves before you, embrace our weaknesses and press into your strength. Thank you for your grace that is moment-by-moment. Be at work in our hearts and lives. Amen.

(Anna Beasley is an Advocate at The Factory Ministries  and currently lives downtown in Lancaster City.)