We value strength, but we don’t often feel very strong. Sometimes that’s because we struggled to finish a workout at the gym. Sometimes it’s because we struggled to get through the day without feeling overwhelmed. Sometimes it’s because we struggled to keep temptation at bay. But it’s safe to say we feel weak more often than we feel strong.
And the truth is – we aren’t very strong. Or at least not as strong as we think. And our weaknesses get revealed in different ways.
For example: parents, one of our weaknesses – impatience – might be revealed when the kids can’t seem to get out of first gear in the morning before school. Kids, one of your weaknesses – anger – might be revealed when your siblings won’t give you the space you asked for.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to our weaknesses!
One of the most famous Christians, the Apostle Paul, knew all about weakness. But he also knew something else.
He knew that God’s power is made perfect in weakness. What does that mean exactly? It means that through our weaknesses, God shows us his strength. If we were strong all the time, we wouldn’t need God and his grace. We’d have it all taken care of. But we aren’t strong – we’re weak. But the weaker we are, the more God’s grace means to us.
And if you want to see the paradox of true strength, look no further than Jesus on the cross. He looked so weak, but he was still powerful enough to save us. And the message of Jesus’ cross is still powerful and strong to save sinners like you and me. So when you feel weak today or later this week, know that the grace of your powerful God is more than enough for you!
God said to me [Paul], “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Keep the Conversation Going!
Questions for Younger Kids
- When do you feel weak or need help?
- What does it mean that God is strong even when we aren’t?
- How can you ask God for help when you feel upset or weak?
Questions for Older Kids
- What weaknesses do you notice in yourself, and why are they hard to admit?
- What do you think it means that God’s power shows up best when we are weak?
- How does Jesus’ “weakness” on the cross actually show true strength?
