“Every human being on earth, regardless of their gifts and strengths, is weak, vulnerable, and dependent on God and others.” — Peter Scazzero, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
2 Corinthians 12:7-10: So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
At the heart of boasting is an unhealthy focus on self. It’s arrogance and pride. Put simply, it’s sin. If we’re going to brag, brag on the Lord. Paul made his weakness known so all could know God’s power at work in him. When we recognize our utter dependence on God, we know in our hearts that everything we have and are is because of the Lord Jesus.
O Lord, I am weak! I’m desperate for you. Thank you that we don’t have to be strong. Just as you told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9), the same is true for us. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! (Philippians 4:13). Be my strength today and receive all the glory!
Reflections on Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day: a 40-day Journey with the Daily Office (Week 1 Day 5 Evening) by Peter Scazzero
