RELY ON GOD
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “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.” 2 Corinthians 12:10 (ESV)
Theme: Rest in God’s strength.
STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES
No matter what Katherine faces, she is gentle, yet firm. She faces the challenges of her job at NASA, being a single parent, and the additional obstacles at work of race and gender. She is truthful and respectful and is not cowed by her male coworkers. When forcefully confronted, she stands up for truth and shines light on real hardships.
As Christ withstood the torments of the crucifixion, sometimes we are attacked, misunderstood, hurt, or insulted. We may be overlooked or treated harshly for our faith, our ethnicity, our gender, personality, or other differences. Our weaknesses, disabilities, or social awkwardness can make us targets. Likewise, our strengths can make others jealous of our success. In any case, take on the mind of Christ. Rely on God’s strength.
MEEK AND BOLD
Remember that God values humility and meekness, but He also empowers those He is calling to bring about change. Sometimes, we must patiently rejoice anyway, being content and resting in God, asking Him to defend us from our enemies. Other times, we are asked by God to take on the giants and to be bold in our faith. Either way, God will grant us strength to endure and persevere. Only God can direct you to the path He has for you.
Make It Personal: It is exhausting to deal with hardship. Whether you are being tormented or you are standing up the tormentors, God is with you. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9, NIV).
Pray: Father God, I want to be in the center of Your Will. When I am attacked, I want to allow space for You to defend me. When others are mistreated, I want to be one who will be ready with a friendly word or a courageous stand. Help me Lord to be strong and patient, waiting on You to clear the way and empower me for Your purposes.
Read: Romans 15:4-6, 8:31-39; Philippians 4:7
Weekly Memory Verse: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 (NIV)