As Christians, we oftentimes feel pressure to look like we have it all together; relationally, emotionally, financially, physically, or otherwise.  It’s the idea that as a Christian, I am supposed to have it all together all the time, and especially during a crisis.  Because I’m a Christian, I should have the answer to everything, never make mistakes, and everything in my life should always be peachy, right?  We feel the pull to “stay strong” in the midst of tough times.  We’re too proud to ask for help when we need it.  We forget that we are human and prone to breaking. 

We all have weaknesses and the Bible doesn’t mince words about the characters between its covers.  There are prostitutes, drunks, liars, cheaters, traitors, racists.  There was depression, physical illness, deformities, and anger problems.  These people had baggage!  And some of them were the same people who were said to have advanced the cause of Christ!

God’s Word talks about weaknesses but not how we normally think of them.  It says weaknesses are opportunities to display the power of God.  I think of Paul who struggled with unanswered prayer and a “thorn in the flesh,” but still gave thanks to God for who he was and how he could be used.  In 2 Corinthians 12:10 (NLT), he says, “I take pleasure in my weaknesses and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ.  For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

We’ve all got problems.  We aren’t fooling anyone when we pretend otherwise.  What is it in your life that God wants to use for His glory?  Have you told Him you’re OK with that and asked Him to use it for His glory instead of your gloom?

Be a witness,
Nate