I’ve always considered myself to be strong. I take pride in the fact that I am stronger than I look. When I was working as a nurse in the hospital, I’d help big strong men who had heart surgery. They didn’t think I could help them stand or sit up. They’d say, “you’re too small to help me.” Then I’d gently show them my strength.
Lately with knee issues, I’ve had to own up to not being as strong as I want to be. It is especially hard for me this week with my knee surgery.
Then, God gently shows me His strength. I do not have to be strong on my own. My real strength comes from within and from someone other than myself. I need to hold onto and remind myself of that in the coming days and weeks.
Paul reminded young Timothy of this very same issue of being strong. In 2 Timothy chapter 2 verse 1, Paul says:
1 Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus.
Later in his letter to the Philippians Paul tells of where he finds his strength in chapter 4 verse 13:
13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
My strength doesn’t come from me. It’s a gift given to me from God through Jesus. When I put my faith and trust in Him, I am strong. There is nothing to worry about, there is only strength, peace and grace in Him.
So many times in the Bible Jesus tells us to give Him our cares, our burdens and He will help us through. It is Jesus I trust in, Jesus I rely on and Jesus who will see me through.
So when I’m tempted to feel strong in my own powers or begin to feel weak without them, I remember the strength isn’t mine to begin with. It’s a gift I am given. One I will thankfully receive, hold onto, nurture and tell others about. Because I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.