I wanted so much to be strong. I think we all want to be strong, to feel self-sufficient – Even as Christians. I’m realizing that the strength I wanted was really “in the flesh.” It was one that wanted recognition and accolades. It was really pride. Honestly, it was birthed out of shame, insecurity and earthly weakness.
We need never fear. We need only to yield to Him, to our Prince Of Peace, to beautiful, wonderful Jesus.
Jesus: “Mark, I want all of you. Then, you will live a life beyond anything you could have ever imagined.”
For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
2 Corinthians 12:8-10
Up against a struggle that’s making you feel like submitting to earthly fears?
Yesterday morning, I had one of the most severe migraine attacks I’ve had in a little while. The aura (vision disturbance) was so strong, I was having a difficult time trying to put together the choosing Jesus every day email. I’m telling you this because I believe Jesus wants everyone to know – to really know – they don’t have to rely on their own strength, that they can let His peace reign in their hearts in all situations. God wants to bring us to the point in our walk with Him where we depend totally on Him and His strength. That is such a sweet spot that brings deep relief to our souls, emotions and minds. It’s a resting in our spirit that convinces us that God really is in control – what a gift. That way, even when we’re “weak,” we’re really strong “in Christ,” and in the power of His (not ours) might.
In Christ – Mmmm…
Feeling weak in some area of your life? Perfect. You’re one God is calling to live close to Him so you can learn the unsurpassed beauty of knowing that He’s strong and that He’ll always care for you. The weak are given the opportunity to yield to Him in a different, contented, deeper way, and learn they can always live secure in – and only in – His dwelling place. Fear not. He is strong. In His shadow there is joy, safety, rest and peace…And there, His precious Presence, to sink down into…evermore.
Praise The Lord (An old song, but so good and true)
By The Imperials
When you’re up against a struggle
That shatters all your dreams
And your hopes have been cruelly crushed
By Satan’s manifested schemes
And you feel the urge within you
To submit to earthly fears
Don’t let the faith you’re standing in
Seem to disappear
CHORUS:
Praise the Lord
He can work through those who praise Him
Praise the Lord
For our God inhabits praise
Praise the Lord
For the chains that seem to bind you
Serve only to remind you
They drop powerless behind you
When you praise Him
Now Satan is a liar
And he wants to make us think
That we are paupers when he knows himself
We’re children of the King
So lift up the mighty shield of faith
For the battle must be won
We know that Jesus Christ is risen
So the work’s already done
(Praise the Lord)
Praise Him
(Praise the Lord)
Praise Him
(Praise the Lord)
When you praise Him
(When you praise)
When you praise Him
When you praise the Lord
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57
I don’t really need to be strong when I’m in Jesus. What a relief that is for me. Jesus Christ is risen so the work’s already done…Thank you, Jesus.
Praise Him, and watch earthly fears drop powerless behind you.
God bless,
Mark