“. . . . Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

2 Corinthians 12:9b (ESV)

Here’s a new idea for most of us: brag about our weaknesses.

Near the end of this letter to the Corinthian church, Paul writes about his infamous “thorn in the flesh.” This passage, which has been the subject of considerable speculation throughout church history, offers a powerful challenge to contemporary generations.

We spend enormous amounts of time and energy trying to conceal our physical and mental limitations. Yet, the Bible calls these weaknesses great places to reveal the power of Christ.

Consider how strange this view is when compared to current cultural advice. We commonly hear phrases like. . . “Put your best foot forward” and “Never let them see you sweat.” While this advice has its place, most of us would rather conceal anything that resembles a weakness than appear the slightest bit incapable.

Paul’s not exactly calling for self-deprecation. He’s not advocating that we never work to improve areas of weakness or that we simply throw in the towel and walk away. Rather, he’s merely pointing to the reality that our weaknesses are not obstacles that God must overcome in order to use us. He might sharpen and refine us converting our weaknesses into strengths. But more often in my life He allows the weakness to remain, at least in part. In fact, what I consider a limitation is often the precise aspect of my physical or mental make-up He uses most powerfully for His glory.

And when you stop to consider it for a moment it makes perfect sense. The areas in my life that best display insufficiency can most clearly reveal God’s all-sufficiency.

Instead of lamenting your weaknesses today, take a moment to think about how God’s sufficiency can be seen through them. Then, take a few moments to thank God that you are woefully inadequate in more than one area of your life. Finally, when your weaknesses are uncovered, learn to brag about them.