When I was at my lowest, confounded by obstacle, I discovered an astonishing truth. God is attracted to weakness. He can’t resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need Him. Our weakness, in fact, makes room for His power.
Have you been there? What brought you out of it? Or maybe I should ask, who brought you out of your lowest point? Were you humbled? What did God show you about yourself during that time?
I ask all that because several weeks ago I had a friend come to me about an issue in her life that was causing her to struggle with being obedient. It was refreshing to witness a heart being humbled by God. Refreshing to listen to a humble heart seeks answers according to the Word of God. Which brings me back to the first paragraph which is worth repeating again. "God is attracted to weakness. He can't resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need Him. Our weakness, in fact makes room for His power.
The ladies bible study I belong to has started reading Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life. Bro. Warren says this, "real spiritual growth is never an isolated, individualistic pursuit. Maturity is produced through relationships and community. Just today I had the opportunity to be mature and say, I am sorry about something that offended someone. At first I tried to say nicely I was being misunderstood. The more I tried to defend myself, the deeper my pit got. Only way to get out was to say I was sorry, can you forgive me? And I really am sorry for the offence. Yeah I am feeling pretty low right now, I just hate it when I mess up. Which is why I needed reminded, God is attracted to weakness, (that's me) He can't resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need Him, (that's me too). My "weakness", in fact make room for His power. I just want to shout with written words....BRING ON THE POWER GOD. Use this weak, broken, desperate old woman for Your Glory.
Link to:
http://jenniferdukeslee.com/tell-his-story/"
Totally agree with you Betty. Paul is 2 Cor.12 is a perfect example of what you have written about. I forget who said it (Tozer maybe?) "God can't use a man greatly until He has broken Him deeply." (slightly revised...lol).
ReplyDeleteYes, Betty, I have been there. Thank you for sharing that with us.
ReplyDeleteGod knew exactly what my day would hold and how badly I would need the truth of II Cor. 12. Thank you Bill and Rehoboth for your replies.
ReplyDeleteThe greatest times of growth and closeness with my Father is when I'm broken - my pride disintegrated... It's only in our humility that we can hear and see the voce and hand of God.
ReplyDeleteI've had many falls after times of over abundant pride. Even now I'm in times of trouble and I ponder if losing the thorn would cause me to be less needy and humble before God... Funny how He can change our perspectives without changing the circumstances... That is nothing short of a miracle. Our Father is using your wise words and heart to do more than you know. Your gift of encouragement and calming spirit does more than you'll ever know this side of singing with the angels...
Thanks Floyd for reading my heart in this post. God use my mistake to grow me is my personal prayer.
ReplyDeleteSteve thanks for stopping by my site.
ReplyDeleteYes, it is difficult to bold face just say I'm sorry can you forgive me. Thank you for sharing your story at "Tell Me a Story." Your points are well taken and inspired me!!
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ReplyDeleteYou did it the right way. "I am sorry. Please forgive me." It's not easy. Thanks for the inspiration to do as well.
ReplyDeleteHazel, thanks for the encouragement. I do believe saying I'm sorry opens the door for God to defend us if needed.
ReplyDeleteSandra, thanks for your encouragement. Will be over to visit you more often.
ReplyDeleteAn honest inspirational message. Yes, when we are weak, God that is in us is strong:)
ReplyDeleteThanks Joy for commenting, I am heading over to your place for a visit. Blessings
ReplyDelete"God is attracted to weakness. He can’t resist whose who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need Him."
ReplyDeleteI *know* this to be true, but it still seems so counter-intuitive! It's definitely one of those "higher things" of God. I'm thankful his thoughts are higher than mine, and that he DOES show his power in our weakness. Great post, Betty.
I too believe it is one of the higher things of God Lisa. Which is why it's so hard to wrap our mind around it. It's a truth that becomes real anytime we are broken by life and our sinful flesh. Peace beyond understanding then comes for self is gone.
ReplyDeleteThis is the 3rd time this week that I have seen that verse from II Corinthians... obviously, God wants me to pay attention to it! :)
ReplyDeleteI have read that book by Rick Warren -- I loved it. :)
This is beautiful, Betty! Love how you mention that we learn when we are being humbled. That seems to be the story of my days. And Ricks quote is beautiful -- we can't grow alone. That's why I'm so hoping you'll join Graffiti Summer. I need to learn from you. Blessings!
ReplyDeletehttp://positivelyalene.com
Beth, thanks for stopping by my site. I love to gather around wise woman who bring encouragement to my soul. Bless you.
ReplyDeleteAlene, thanks for the invite, it is something that touched my heart. Now to work it out practically as the start of our summer is filled to the brim. Love the idea for we all need accountability in our lives. Glad you stopped by. Blessings my sister.
ReplyDeleteI like this: "Our weakness, in fact makes room for His power."
ReplyDeleteThank you, Betty, for this lovely reminder.
Thanks for the visit to my blog site. Loved what you wrote on yours, had stayed with...the fog is still there but so is the peace. Blessings
ReplyDeleteBetty, I love your honesty in your post. Such true words... "Our weakness, in fact makes room for His power." Thank you for sharing your heart. I hope you decide to join us in the Graffiti Summer challenge!
ReplyDeleteBlessings to you. Beth
Thanks Beth for your kinds word. Just today God brought more light into the situation of offence. I can tell you forgiveness will have it way with us and all things will work for the good of those who love God. And I do love Him, he grows sweeter everyday. Blessings
ReplyDeleteHi Betty! Found my way here at last, and it was well worth the effort :)
ReplyDeleteLiving the gospel isn't always fun moments of singing "Kumbaya" around a campfire - and I thanks God for that truth, because we weren't meant for the shallow, feel good end of the pool while we are here. Sometimes, we are going to need to be broken again - and I'm grateful He gives us the grace, and the ability, to do the next right thing.
I'll be back :)