When you think about a courageous person, who comes to mind? There were many examples of courage in the Bible, but one of the most courageous was the Apostle Paul. Shipwrecked, arrested, beaten, falsely accused, snake bitten, and so much more, Paul courageously endured it all for the sake of Jesus.
But Paul didn’t take credit for the strength he was able to show.
Read 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.
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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Paul was given God’s immeasurable strength because he openly acknowledged his weakness. He knew all power came from God and Paul didn’t want his own courage to outshine the courage of God in his life. In any situation where he experienced hardships, insults, calamity or persecutions, the strength and power of God is what got him through.
Paul didn’t want people to praise his strength, but to praise God’s strength. Paul wanted others to see his weakness so the glory of God would shine even brighter.
Are you courageous enough to allow God’s strength to shine through your weakness? If yes, where?
Author - Anne Bosarge