Strong vs. Weak

“I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling.”—1 Corinthians 2:3 NKJV

We often think of Paul as articulate and confident, a powerful writer. However, he confessed to the Corinthians that he struggled in ways that may have been surprising. He admitted that he came to them in weakness, fear, and trembling. As J.B. Philips translates this verse, Paul did not feel strong but was nervous and shaky.

We can hardly picture a person being less secure. Paul spoke about weakness throughout his letters to the Corinthians. Paul wanted them to learn that we draw strength from the Lord. He can give us whatever we need.

He told them, “God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty” (1 Corinthians 1:27). He wrote that he could be strong by trusting in God (1 Corinthians 4:10). He told them, “To the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak” (1 Corinthians 9:19–22). He had come to recognize that when he was weak, he could draw on God’s strength.

When we feel weak or inadequate, we need to turn to God, remembering that God can provide whatever we need, just as He did for people in Bible times, like Paul. Today, if you recognize weaknesses, don’t give up, but turn to God. He is with you. Ask Him in faith for whatever you need. Trust in Him.

Reflection Question: What weaknesses are you bringing to God today?