Our society places a high standard on strength. We strive for a strong heart, a strong investment portfolio, and strong relationships. From an early age, we are taught that being strong, independent, and self-sufficient, is the ideal that will lead to happiness in life.
The problem is that we are not self-sufficient and strong. We are flawed because of sin. We cannot anything to overcome this fatal deficiency. The awesome news is that in the economy of God, our weakness makes us complete.
Men of faith rise up and sing, of the great and glorious king. You are strong when you feel weak, in your brokenness complete. (Shout to the North, by Martin Smith)
When we realize that we are weak and in need of God for our salvation, purpose, and direction, only then are we seeking the correct source of hope and joy. The more we trust God’s power over our own, the more His power will transform us, and bring glory to HIm.
“My Grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
This truth is a major stumbling block in Christian evangelism. How do those with a disdain for weakness, become convinced that they are weak and in need of a savior? Some people even question Christianity on these grounds. “After all, isn’t Christianity for the weak?,” they may ask. These people might be on to something.
Christianity is for the weak, the spiritually sick. And according to Jesus, that’s all of us-whether we realize it or not. (From the book: If you Could ask God one Question, by Paul Williams and Barry Cooper)
Self-help is an oxymoron. If we could help ourselves we would not need God. God created us for His glory. Here is the news flash: You are weak, and helpless to do anything about it on your own. Praise God.
1 response so far ↓
Doug Kingsley // April 30, 2008 at 4:56 pm
I wonder if another school of thought might say Christianity is for the strong. I believe there is nothing that requires more inner strength than completely placing your life in God’s hands. strong willed people believe they are in control and to admit that you are not in control requires a tremendous faith (translated strength).
The saying is “God helps those who help themselves.” The “very strong” must recognize God’s guidance through Jesus Christ as it applies to them and act upon it. That’s not easy.
Not suggesting right or wrong. It’s a very complex subject and I belive we need to boil it down to our individual every day lives.