Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could submit a resume of our weaknesses? Just admit right up front “Hey, this is where I need help. I’m not strong in this area! I have this problem that I can’t defeat in my own strength.”
The world looks at our strengths and praises us because of them. God looks at our weaknesses and chooses to use them (1 Corinthians 1:27). And the apostle Paul suggests we should boast in our shortcomings!
“…Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may dwell in me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Paul determined to brag about his weakness, so that the power of Christ in him could be seen.
What? TELL EVERYBODY about my weaknesses or my past? No way! I’ve got it all together now, I’m not going to dredge any of that up.
But rather than hide our weaknesses, addictions or areas of lack, we can proclaim them and share them with others. They become our testimony.
And they overcame him (Satan) because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death. Revelation 12:11(NASB)
When we share our past mistakes, our messes and our trials with others, they can see how the blood of Christ has changed us, and His grace has strengthened us. Testimonies give hope to others. Take a look at these powerful stories I have heard through the years:
◆ I am an alcoholic (drug addict, addicted to pornography), but by the grace of God, I no longer have a desire to drink (do drugs, look at porn). He delivered me and crushed my addiction under His feet!
◆ I’m scared stiff to stand in front of people and speak. My heart races, my voice and hands shake, and I can’t catch my breath. But God’s grace enables me to stand and speak when I am called to do so. I have even volunteered to teach a class at church!
◆ I didn’t want to go on that mission trip. I’m scared to fly, I’m an introvert, I’m a home body. I didn’t know what I would do or say once I got there. But God! He gave me words to say, He brought me out of my shell, He calmed my fears.
◆ I was able to forgive my ex-husband for all the pain he caused me and my family. But not in my own strength. It was Christ in me. It was God’s supernatural grace that gave me the will and power to forgive.
God can turn your mess into a message and your test into a testimony. (Author unknown)
Our stories of weakness and how we overcome by the grace of God, glorify Him. And that’s something to brag about.
What’s your story?
Until next week,
Joining these lovely writers. Be sure to visit their pages, you’ll be encouraged!
Suzie Eller, Live Free Thursday
Kelly at Purposeful Faith
Holly at Testimony Tuesday
Crystal at Intentionally Pursuing the Heart of God
Jennifer at Tell His Story
Lyli at 3D Lessons for Life, Thought Provoking Thursday