“When I’m weak, then He is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me.”
And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NASB)
“Nana, your muscles are hanging down,” my grandson said to me as he looked at my extended left arm.
“Yes, you’re right, buddy, my muscles have fallen down,” I said with a chuckle and a smile.
What honesty. Children sure can humorously spout off facts. I laughed even though the truth hurt a little. I am getting older and my body is a bit more feeble. Walking regularly and exercising several times a week help me maintain a certain level of physical strength. But I’m not as strong as I used to be.
What about mental strength? My focus determines how strong I am mentally. When I concentrate on circumstances, I’m fairly weak. Turning my attention to Jesus and prayer increases my strength. Requesting prayer from other people empowers me. So when I explained to my son about his grandmother’s lung cancer, I ask him to pray for me that I might be strong for my mom. The little ears of my sweet grandson heard our conversation and he said, “Nana, you are strong.”
Out of the mouths of babes. His comment gave me the courage to walk on and face my tomorrow. I knew the little guy prayed in his innocent way, along with my son, family, and friends who promised to lift me up in prayer. Those prayers carried me straight to the loving and gracious arms of Jesus. No anxiety, only peace.
After Mom and I met with her doctor to discuss options for treating the cancer, we walked out of the office with hope. Maybe our muscles drooped producing unimpressive physiques, but our minds carried peaceful strength. What a mighty God we serve!
“Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me for the Bible tells me so!”
Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5-6 (NASB)
And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (NASB)