Tuesday, April 20, 2021

The Gift of of a Handicap

 

We wonder why God keeps letting us go through challenges, trials, and obstacles. Sometimes it even seems like He's got something out for us. But occasionally, I wonder if he allows us to struggle because He knows other people are watching.

 My/ our challenges aren't always about me/ you - sometimes they're about a viewing audience. That audience might be friends, family, co-workers, boss, your kids… could be anyone.

 Especially if you're a leader, you can be absolutely sure people are watching. The bottom line is that the way you handle every difficulty, obstacle, or frustration you experience is being watched by someone else.

 Like it or not, they may be learning from your example. Your response to problems can be incredibly helpful or hurtful to the people around you. Remember that next time.

 We joke that pregnant women are "eating for two." The truth is, your challenges in life are the same way. It's not just about you. It's about others as well. Ap. Paul explains this as no other:

 … I was given the gift of a handicap (a thorn in the flesh - NKJV) to keep me in constant touch with my limitations… At first I didn’t think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me,” My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness.”

Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ’s strength moving in on my weakness.

 Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become. (2 Cor 12:7-10 MSG)

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