As I prepared for this semester, I knew that it was going to be an extremely busy time. So I looked at my commitments other than school and was extremely concerned about my ability to do it all. As I prayed about this issue and considered "uncommitting" from a couple of things, the Lord led me to II Corinthians 12:10. I wasn't even sure there were twelve chapters in that book! But I turned and indeed there was.
II Corinthians 12:10 ends a passage where Paul is discussing his weaknesses, and he concludes with this: "for when I am weak, then I am strong." Earlier in the passage, the Lord tells Paul that "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." As I read these words, I felt the Lord telling me to keep my commitments and begin to walk in a spirit of weakness, depending fully on Him and His grace to sustain me.
So, we're a month into the semester. I've realized that I have never been challenged like this before in my life. The job the Lord has provided offers ministry at a level I cannot imagine. While every moment of my life is full (even when I'm asleep, I'm thinking about Greek - just ask Heather!), it is full of God's presence and power.
I begin nearly every day by confessing that I cannot do everything God has given me to do. For the first time in my life, I relaize my own limitations. And in my weakness, God is extending His power and being made strong in my life. And everything is getting done (except the dishes) and ministry is happening.
The Lord suggested during this time that He was enrolling me in another class this fall - one on walking in the weakness that reveals His power. But it seems more like an internship. And I'm realizing again that the truth of Scripture and the power of God have no limit. And when I am weak and exhausted, Christ in me is strong and powerful.
It reminds me of a professor who defined ministry like this: "You must do what you cannot do with what you do not have for the rest of your lives." No resources. No abilities. But full reliance on God. And the amazing opportunity to see His glory and power displayed in our lives. Could we even ask for anything more?
λίθος - A Greek word used in the New Testament to describe a stone or spiritual edification by Scriptural teaching.
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Books I'm Reading
- Recalling the Hope of Glory by Allen Ross
- Maximizing Your Effectiveness by Aubrey Malphurs
- Planting Growing Churches for the 21st Century by Aubrey Malphurs
- Care of Souls by David Brenner
- They Like Jesus But Not the Church by Dan Kimball
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1 comment:
Hey Matt,
I e-mailed yesterday, but in case I have an old e-address for you, I wanted to be sure that you know how timely this message was. We are going through a lot right now and yesterday was one in which I needed to do something difficult. I knew that in and of myself I didn't have the emotional strength to do what was necessary in the proper manner. I was tempted just to not show up. In stead, while closing down my computer, I was pulled to read your blog immediatly. Thank you for being a willing vessel, as a direct result, I was able to walk in with the strength of the Lord and react with His grace, and not my own (we both know that I have little of that : P). We continue to pray for you and Heather as you walk the path the God has you on! Many blessings - - - Carol
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