It’s a familiar verse: “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10 NLT). But for all our familiarity with the principle, we hardly remember to apply it. It seems to come to mind only as an encouragement when we’re desperately weak. But Paul originally stated it as a way of life. When we try to be strong, we live by our strength. When we recognize our weakness and depend on God, we live by his strength. Clearly the latter option is better.
So why don’t we live by that principle moment by moment? Perhaps we don’t like to admit our own weakness. Maybe we want to cultivate some vestige of independence. But though independence is instinctual for fallen humanity, it doesn’t serve us well. It leaves us truly weak in the end. Relying on God’s strength is a far better way to live.
In practical terms, that means appealing to him in every situation. That doesn’t imply any lack of effort on our part. It does, however, mean we refuse to manipulate, orchestrate, or force our way into situations we desire. We also refuse to worry about apparent limitations. In other words, we embrace our weakness, trust God, and then do what he says. That’s it. Nothing more, nothing less. We rest in who he is.
Outwardly, that may look irresponsible. Inwardly, you know it isn’t. The most responsible thing you can do is defer to God and trust him. He will fight for you. He will open doors in time. He will defend, protect, and provide. The more you embrace your weakness, the more you give room for his strength. And that’s as great a strength as you’ll ever need.
