Although he died on the cross in weakness, he now lives by the mighty power of God. We, too, are weak, but we live in him and have God’s power–the power we use in dealing with you. 2 Corinthians 13:4,My power works best in your weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me. 2 Corinthians 12:9a NLT
Working through Purpose Driven Life, Day 35 spoke volumes. We are full of flaws and that is not anything to be ashamed of. In fact, God uses the weak to do His work. He is hindered in this if we refuse to recognize and acknowledge our flaws. 1 Corinthians 1:27 (TEV) God purposely chose…what the world considers weak in order to shame the powerful. 2 Corinthians 4;7(CEV) states: We are like clay jars in which this treasure is stored. The real power comes from God and not from us.
An illustration used in the Bible class at school this week focused on the potter and his work. A young boy was feeling bad because he didn’t perform at baseball practice like he wanted. In fact, the others began calling him names. Going home he was focusing on his poor eyesight, his run-down house, the dilapidated furniture, and his generally poor conditions in contrast with the other’s rich life-style and good strength. His mother, sensing what was happening, took him for a visit to a potter. The young boy watched the potter work the clay, after admiring some of the potter’s pottery. The potter put some clay on the wheel and began to work it, but it began to lean as the form of a vase took shape. The potter stopped the wheel, took the clay off and began to throw it away. The young boy said please don’t throw it away, give it another chance. The potter explained that when he began to work the clay he had a purpose in mind for that clay, sugar bowl needs to be short and wide, vase needs to be tall and slender. At the boy’s request, he took the clay again, added more water and began to shape a lovely vase. The boy understood the message, that our flaws seem to be a hindrance to us, but the Potter has a purpose for us and can use us as we are.
God’s power is stored in us, earthen vessels, he has built for a purpose. We need to focus on His power, not any perceived strengths and weaknesses of ours. He uses us as we are. He molds us, shapes us and fills us for His use. In 2 Corinthians 12:9a Paul states, “I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me.” Our weaknesses can prevent arrogance once we recognize and acknowledge them. Paul states in 2 Corinthians 12:7 “So I wouldn’t get a big head, I was given a gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations.” (MSG)
I’m purposing to not put myself down for my weaknesses, not make excuses for them, simply acknowledge them and move on. I am purposing to accept that God uses us all as we are, no excuses, and what is accomplished for Him is done by His power as we are willing vessels. How about you?
Gracie's Quest 