2 Corinthians 12:9,10 “……….Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in
reproaches, in necessities, in persecution, in distress for Christ’s sake; for
when I am weak, then am I strong.”
Struggles are an
essential part of our wellbeing.
A young man decided that a struggling emperor moth needed help to get
out of the cocoon. He snipped off the
end, making it easy for the moth to crawl out. He didn’t realize that the added
struggle was necessary for the further development of the small creature. Its body was swollen and its wings shriveled.
It could not fly when it emerged. Our
own struggles are often essential to preparing us for life’s challenges.
Life’s struggles force us to look to God and depend on Him instead of
ourselves. Think of them as character
building opportunities. Paul said, “but
we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulations produces perseverance;
and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4 they also
help us to be sensitive to others who also must struggle. (II Corinthians 1:3-5)
When facing difficult situations, ask yourself, “What can I learn, and how can
I grow?”
Our weaknesses have a
way of making us rely on God, far more than our strengths do.
There are several reasons why we should be grateful for our inborn
weaknesses:
They cause us to depend on God (II Corinthians12:10)
Prevent arrogance – Keep us humble (II Corinthians12:7)
Makes
us more prayerful.
Encourages us to submit to God’s purpose for our lives.
Our greatest influence may come out of our deepest
hurts.
Prayer
Requests: ____________________________________________________________