Strength…a concept often misunderstood by the masses. In society, strength is aligned with toughness and courage. The ‘strongest’ one wins. The ‘toughest’ one is the last one standing when the battle is over. The most ‘courageous’ one is seen as the one who will spare nothing to accomplish a feat. The ‘strong’, go it alone if necessary. The ‘strong’, weather out the storm, the ‘strong’, keep moving forward at all cost.
Little is mentioned about the true price that is paid to be ‘strong’ by this definition. Many in life appear to be ‘strong’, yet when the battle is over and the conquest is accomplished, they are often left beaten and bruised. Being ‘strong’, they look nowhere for assistance to aid their battle sustained injuries, and hence live life behind a mask of anguish.
When and how did humanity embrace this lie about ‘strength’? The lie which has caused many people to remain in pain, suffering, isolation and bondage. If true purpose is going to be uncovered in everyday life, ‘strength’ needs to be examined from a different perspective.
Contrary to popular belief, there is another lens by which to see the genuine value of ‘strength’. God, in his infinite wisdom, looks at strength from a distinct vantage point. His truth tells us: His power is made strong in our weakness (2Corinthians 12:9a). When we see ourselves as ‘weak’, in comparison to God, and look to Him for our sense of strength, then and only then… are we authentically ‘strong’. Our own fortitude has limits, while God’s power, working in us and through us can propel us to levels beyond our imagination (Ephesians 3:20).
Consider the strength of Moses, a man who saw himself as a weak shepherd, parts the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21). David, the young shepherd boy, defeats Goliath (1 Samuel 17:50). Mary Magdalene, a prostitute, delivers the message of Jesus’ resurrection to the disciples (Mark 16:1-7).
Often times we read about these accounts or hear about these stories and think these were men and women of great vitality, when actually, they were ordinary people, just like you and I, doing extraordinary things through the power of God. (James 5:17). If there were to be a distinction made, I would say it lies within the realm of TRUST. They trusted God to give them the wisdom, courage and ultimately the strength to carry out what they felt was impossible in their own might.
Perhaps today you would say…YES, that is me! I have embraced the lie! I have been trying to tackle the challenges of life within the confines of my own wisdom, abilities and courage. If so, I have good news for you! Jesus came to set you free (John 8:32). Confess to God that you have been trying to do things in your own strength and with your finite understanding. Allow Him to be your strong tower, your shelter from the battlefield, and your place of refuge (Psalms 91:1). Find His strength in your weakness.
Shifting your perspective from believing the lie, to embracing the truth, will help you to uncover purpose in your everyday life! Take a moment and listen to this song…it represents well the message of finding God’s strength in the center of your weakness. Click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zC617kE1ma
-Lucy Ann
Challenge Question:
Are you willing to exchange your weaknesses for God’s strength? What action step can you take today towards that commitment?
Be sure and sign up to “Join the Team” so we can stay connected!
Leave a Reply