S.Scripture | And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions and hardships, for the sake of Christ, for when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9–10
O.Observation | Contentment in humility, even when opposition to the truth comes, comes first from the Masters all sufficient grace and second from the strength in knowing when we are weak, we are strong. Not that we are ever to be weak in defending the truth of Holy Scripture (Acts 20:20–21; Jude 1:3; 1 Tim 6:12; 2 Tim 1:7-8). But we are weak, with a low minded humility instead of self defensive. These two must be kept separate, self defensiveness and biblical offensiveness or defensiveness. For Paul even commands that we correct those in opposition with patience and gentleness (2 Tim 2:24-25). Yet instead of responding from our fleshly nature in retaliation, Jesus commands that we turn the other cheek. He even teaches us to pray for those who persecute us (Matt 5:38-44). Such Christlike humility and meekness means we are to be a lion for God and His Word, but a lamb in regard to ourselves.
A.Application | When I in myself am weak or weakened, He can receive all the more glory as the One who gives strength. The One who lifts us when we are down is the One who is glorified. Is that God and His Word in my life? Or man and his teaching? Where do I find my strength? Today I turn to God’s grace, as it is always sufficient in my weakness.
P.Prayer | Father, I repent of the self-defensive way of thinking and blaming others that my flesh and this wicked and perverse world champion. In your strength let me joyfully receive all the beatings and sufferings this world has to offer those who stand on Your truth alone. In Your strength keep me from shrinking back from declaring all of your truth with boldness for Your glory alone. Amen.
