When I am weak He is strong!
We are in a season of spiritual growth at Grace Place studying “Life’s Healing Choices.” We are getting honest with ourselves, with God, and with each other.
In 2 Corinthians 1:8 Paul talks about hardships and troubles he was going through that were so severe that he says: We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Did you know that great hero of the faith got that discouraged and depressed that he was feeling like giving up on life? But then he says:
We saw how powerless we were to help ourselves; but that was good, for then we put everything into the hands of God, who alone could save us, for he can even raise the dead. 2 Corinthians 1:9 (LB)
- “We saw how powerless we were to help ourselves”—that’s step one, being “poor in spirit,” admitting I’m powerless to change.
- “but that was good”—why would it be good to admit my helplessness and powerlessness?
- “for then we put everything into the hands of God”—Rick Warren says: “You don’t know God is all you need until God is all you’ve got.” So Paul surrenders! That’s the key to getting help—surrender. For then we put everything into the hands of God:
- “who alone can save us, for he can raise the dead.” If God can raise a dead person, do you think he can raise a dead marriage? Relationship? Career? Dream? God still does miracles! He can redeem bad situations. He specializes in turning crucifixions into resurrections!
I need to admit my need and ask God for help. Listen how The Message Bible paraphrases the first Beatitude:
You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. Matthew 5:3 (Mes)
Sometimes people have to hit the bottom before they are willing to humbly admit their need and ask God for help. I encourage you not to wait until you are at the end of your rope or hit rock bottom to get honest about your problems, and admit them and surrender to God, asking him to help you.