Your Weaknesses

In 1626, famed poet and pastor John Donne was asked to speak at London’s St. Paul’s Cathedral for the funeral of the city’s former Lord Mayor. Donne used this occasion to speak, boldly and honestly, about the distractions that can creep into our Christian lives.

How often he really intended to seek God: “I throw myself down in my chamber, and I call in, and invite God, and his Angels.” Yet, he confessed, how easily he could be distracted, just by a noise or even “the whining of a door.”

Often, he admitted, his mind wandered: “I talk on, in the same posture of praying; eyes lifted up; knees bowed down.” At times, he could forget the subject of his prayers.

Donne’s honest comments were designed to help listeners realize that there is “nothing, nothing perfect in this world” and that all of us need to depend on God.

Paul, too, honestly shared his own struggles, describing himself as a “wretched man,” unable to do good. Like Donne, Paul realized that his hope was in Jesus: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Through Him, there was no condemnation, and he could be more than a conqueror (Romans 8:1, 37).

Have you been frustrated with your own spiritual life? Have you struggled and experienced doubts and worries? Have you fallen short? Be honest with God. Confess your sins. Cry out for His help. He knows your weaknesses and wants you to trust in Him. His power is real. He can transform your life, give you victory and the strength you need today.