Heart of the Matter Monday: Weakness Week #1

  “People value being strong and independent.  But the dynamic of weakness and dependence makes Christ matter in your life.  When Christ matters in your life He shines through your life. People see the evidence of something wonderful—the hand of Another at work in you. “

~  David Powelison.  I’m  Exhausted.  Pg 13 - 14

I normally take a "hands off" approach to these Monday quotes, letting the words speak for themselves.  Today, however, I felt I needed to put in an additional word. 

 One of the topics near and dear to my heart is weakness.  It's not a natural subject of discussion for me.  I wasn't born liking the subject.  In fact, I was born with the subconscious notion that it was one of major things I should avoid.  It's great to pray other people through their own weakness but try not to be weak yourself.    It’s ok to be weak as long as you display your strength by overcoming weakness.  Just try not to stay weak.  Such thoughts are the evidence that I am a true descendant of fallen Adam and Eve and a young woman who has listened to some of the messages of the culture. 

(Note: When I use the term “weakness,” I am talking about those circumstances, people and physical conditions in our lives that drain and deplete us and make us feel as though we can’t do what we ought or would like.)

Over the last several years I have had lots of encounters with Weakness.  I know the bitterness of its unforgettable flavor and am no stranger to his reoccurring company.  I know I am not alone in this either.  You have felt it too, haven’t you?  The reality is, each of us must face and deal with our own weakness.  It begs the question....


What do YOU do with weakness?

Hopefully, over the next several Mondays, our hearts will be encouraged to deal with our weaknesses (and the weaknesses of others) in a manner like Christ.  The Christ who was the “Man of Sorrows” …the One “well acquainted with grief” and weakness…who in His Divine strength willingly took on weakness to redeem the “poor in heart.  ”