When I am weak, then I am strong

SCRIPTURE:  2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us

OBSERVATION:  Paul is explaining in his second letter to the church in Corinth that the power of God proves strong in their weakness.  Our treasure is the surpassing greatness of Christ in us (earthen vessels) and shines ever so brightly in our weakness.  He also states later in II Corinthians 12:9 that he even boasts in his weaknesses that the power of Christ may rest upon him.  I can't help but be reminded of the battle that Gideon had to go to with just a few hundred men and some torches (up against hundreds of thousands mind you..already bad odds!).  He began with 10's of thousands of men and God very quickly whittled them down to just a few hundred.  Why?  God caused Gideon to trust God (faith) in the midst of overwhelming circumstances and God showed Himself strong on his behalf.  Which reminds me of another scripture in 2 Chronicles 16:9 where it basically says that the eyes of God are searching throughout the whole earth to show himself strong on behalf of those who's hearts are loyal to His.

APPLICATION:  Old testament to New...God never changes.  He's just looking for people to believe Him at His word, to live, move, and breathe in faith what He has promised and to be bold enough to live courageously against all odds.  So often it is my tendency to wince at coming disaster or difficult trials..however these are often the moments when God shows Himself strong on my behalf and declares his glory through my life.  Testimonies are forever..and they're the alters that are often built upon the most difficult circumstances in our lives.

PRAYER:  Lord, help me to always look up when all around my soul gives way.  When I am hard-pressed on every side, perplexed, persecuted, struck down..let me remember that  this life pales in comparison to the coming glory ahead and the place that you have prepared for me.  Help me to see bigger giants as simply bigger targets and opportunities for Your light to so shine before men, that their eyes are opened to their day of salvation.  Let Your strength be made perfect in my weakness that Your power may rest upon me.  You are great, O' god! and Your love endures forever!