Power in Weakness

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

There was a small herb standing next to a tall and strong teak tree in the forest. The teak was a proud tree, while the herb felt small and weak. She often asked why she was born as a herb instead of a tree.

One day, there was a storm in the forest. The teak stood firmly by spreading its leaves, while the herb bowed low. The storm kept growing stronger, reaching a point where the teak could no longer bear it. He tried his best to stand upright, but in the end, he fell.

The herb continued to bow low during the storm. When everything was calm again, the herb stood straight. She looked around and saw the teak tree had fallen. From that moment, the herb was grateful for being herself.

Paul had something he called a ‘thorn in the flesh’ that made him weak. A few times, he asked God to remove it from his life. God had a reason to reject his request, and it was for Paul’s good. God did not leave Paul alone out of rejection. The grace and power that God graciously gave to Paul made him stronger than he could ever be. God allowed the thorn to stay in Paul’s life for him to fulfill his mission on earth and return all glory to God.

To me, cancer is like the ‘thorn in the flesh’ God permitted in my life. I continue to pray for divine healing, and I believe I have received it. Though it has made me weak, it has also allowed me to experience Him like never before, His overflowing grace and peace, His strength and hope to sustain me. Truly, it is only by His grace that I can be where I am today. I'm learning to bow low to God amidst this storm. I believe I can stand tall when the storm is over, and only His Name will be glorified.

My friend, if you feel so weak right now because of the ‘thorn’ in your life, know that you are not an unlucky person. You are not small or insignificant to God. You are not forgotten. Your mountains are not too high for God. Your giants are not too big for God. He is in control of your situation. He cares for you. God will turn your mess into a message, your test into a testimony, and your trial into a triumph. He has a big purpose for you. He is with you and for you.

In difficult situations, find your strength in Christ. Even as you carry the “thorn” in your flesh, the power of God will work to cover your weakness. Through your life testimony, many will be blessed. Set your focus on His purpose. God is bringing that purpose into fulfillment. Expect big things in front of you. Your sickness is being healed. Your family is being reunited. Your finances are being restored. You are the chosen one!

When I am weak, I am strong in Christ!