Weakness

<<fault(s), limitation>>

While this normally means lacking physical or emotional energy and strength, it also refers to having character defects or weak points. We all have areas where we are lacking in our personalities and moral deficiencies where we are unable to cope. However, we also have strengths which can be a help to others, so each of us should be accountable to and for others, bearing others up as appropriate, while also receiving grace and support from them (Gal 6:2; 1 Thes 5:14; Heb 12:12,13). Not only do we need to rely on God and the support of other Christians to help us to be overcomers, we should have safeguards to protect us from sinning as walking in victorious obedience is more acceptable to God than sinning and then repenting (1 Sam 15:22).

other believers or who are not walking closely with God, and even those who proudly think they are standing firm in the faith, are vulnerable to Satan’s attacks to ensnare (1 Cor 10:12; 1 Pet 5:8). Our strength comes though recognizing and acknowledging that by ourselves we are no match against Satan, but with Christ the scenario is reversed – we can be victorious as we maintain intimacy with our Saviour, protected with the armour of God and living ‘in the spirit’ not the flesh (Jn 5:30, 15:4,5; Gal 5:25; Eph 6:11-18).

Pressure and the storms of life will expose weak spots in us. As it is in these vulnerable points that temptation strikes we must guard our reactions so that even our strengths are not destroyed (Mt 7:24-27; 2 Pet 3:17).  We should endeavour to strengthen our fragile areas, to provide extra protection while continuing to rely on God’s grace and ability, for “When I am weak [in my ability], then I am strong” [as I rely on God’s help], for the less I have the more I rely on God (2 Cor 12:9,10). God will use us in spite of, and because of, our weaknesses when we depend on His ability, for the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses, if we ask Him (Rom 8:26). God delights in taking situations where human strength is lacking to demonstrate the greatness of His power (2 Cor 1:9, 3:5). Jesus Christ, was “crucified in weakness” but “now lives by the power of God” (2 Cor 13:4).

“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” (1 Cor 1:27). In humility we must allow Him to equip and empower us to accomplish His will. As we make ourselves available to Him He will provide the ability. glory goes to Him (2 Cor 4:7). In admitting our weakness, we affirm His ability and power. God didn’t remove Paul’s problem, instead His grace and power became more obvious, resulting in more glory to God than if it had been removed. Similarly, our weaknesses cause us to humbly rely more on God for our enabling and effectiveness, and through this develop our love and devotion to Him as well as strengthening our Christian character. God will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear if we rely on the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, besides actively avoiding places and activities that would cause us to be overcome by evil (Zech 4:6; 1 Cor 10:13).

Don’t let any current weaknesses in your life prevent you from claiming and walking increasingly in Christ’s ability and gaining strength to resist the enemy’s attacks. Acknowledge your failings yet keep a right perspective by focusing on His power in you, not your lack or the liability of the flesh. Sharing your struggles with other concerned and prayerful Christians is also supportive (Gal 6:1-3; Phil 4:13).

1 Pet 3:7). We all have an Achilles heel – a vulnerable character flaw that can undermine our strengths, so identify and address it to avoid disaster. A wise person recognises their weakness, takes steps to protect from attack and is able to stand; the unwise are conquered when their weakness is exposed in battle. Temptation in all its various forms exposes human failings as the Israelites discovered: they succumbed to lust – wanting what they didn’t have or was inappropriate for them; idolatry – giving allegiance to something other than God; sexual immorality – going beyond God’s boundaries; tempting God – demanding more than He has graciously given; murmuring – having negative attitudes and always complaining (1 Cor 10:6-11).  If these or any other areas are weaknesses in your life, deal with them and make right choices so they don’t destroy you. Don’t tackle all your weaknesses at once, instead concentrate on a couple at a time and seek to remedy them, and maybe enlist the help of one who is strong in this area so they can advise and hold you accountable. Throughout eternity you will not regret the effort you put in now.

Thank God that, if we are wholeheartedly submitted to Jesus, He helps us in our feebleness, turning the flaw and liability into a strength – for He gives His power to the weak when they seek Him (Isa 40:29-31; Heb 4:15, 11:34). We are to live in such a way that in exercising our liberty and victory in Christ we are considerate of others so we don’t cause them to stumble, for with freedom and strength comes the responsibility not to offend those weak in the faith (Mt 18:6; 1 Cor 8:7-13, 10:32).  The Bible encourages us to show kindness to the poor and disadvantaged declaring, “Blessed is he who has regard for the weak” (Ps 41:1-3).

See also: advantage, armour/spiritual, flesh, immaturity, reaction, stability, stand firm, strength, support, temptation, tension, vulnerable.