2 Corinthians 12:9 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 about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
This verse has come up a few different times in previous devotions, yesterday being the most recent time it was referenced. But why is it included in a series of devotions on anxiety? The times we have referenced it before it was not the focus for the day and was just support. Today, though, it is the focus.
So here is why I included this verse in our series (and it may be the same for you or may be completely off the mark). I am a perfectionist and being such I don’t want people to see me as less than my best. So I try to hide my flaws, insecurities, and struggles because I don’t like people thinking I don’t have it all together. As a result, my stress levels begin to rise when struggles start, and before long I will be in full anxiety breakdown.
This verse serves as a reminder that once again, just like yesterday, we choose how we view things. We can view our weaknesses as opportunities for God to work in us and through us or we can see them as problems and believe the lies of the enemy. Paul actually boasted about his weaknesses. Of course, he wasn’t saying, “Hey guys, check me out! I’m so pitiful and slow. I’m the bottom of the barrel! No one is worse than me!” Boasting is about God, what HE has done in us and through us (2 Corinthians 12:10).
The weakness you feel, whether perfectionism that leads to anxiety like me or something else, is your opportunity to let God work in your life. It is your chance to grow, to demonstrate your faith in God, and to boast in what God is doing. Let go of the things you cling to that are weighing you down and let God work in you. It’s okay to be weak because He is faithful and will be there to carry you through.
Have you identified your weaknesses? I know mine, perfectionism being just one amongst many. But I will keep moving forward, trusting the Lord to be my strength despite those weaknesses. What about you?
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