When You Became Strong

2 Corinthians 12:10

There are certain situations that have been brought to my attention recently, in which I would like to help people come to peace with concering their telling others about personal needs or situations.
It is not easy admitting that we have weaknesses to others. 

Imaginary conversations start swirling around in our mind thinking if we confess we need something or someone it means we do not have a grasp on things.  People may think we are needy or weak and gossip about what we shared out of desperation.

Reaching out can literally backfire, causing us to shrink back in seeking help when we most need it.  Even though sharing the need for help may be hard, the Bible does bid us to seek counsel from godly, wise individuals.  Sadly those people may not be (and most likey are not) family, friends or co-workers.  

However, as believers in Christ Jesus, we do not have to go through any trial alone.  On the other hand, we need to be extremely cautious in whom we share our circumstances with if we do not have complete peace in our spirit in doing so.  

Besides having those of faith in your prayer corner, God Himself is already aware of the situation.  Taking our cares and concerns to the Lord is different; He is waiting for the Righteous to bring every burden to Him and leave it at His feet.  

"Cast your cares on the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the Righteous be shaken." (Psalm 55:22 NIV)

You can trust that everything you share from your heart is safe with the Lord. He will show you a way to the other side of the situation when there seems to be no answer.

"Cast your cares (anxiety, fears, concerns) on Him, for He cares for you."  (1 Peter 5:7)

Understand that just because things are not peachy in your life does not mean God’s favor is not available or working.  On the contrary, it may be those very hardships that God is using to extend His blessings and favor (His grace) in ways not ordinarily noticed.

Say, I Am Strong!

Scriptures tell us about a situation in the Apostle Paul's life when he going through a difficult time.  Did God pull him out of it?  No, but he did get an answer, although it may not have been what he expected at the time.  This is what Jesus said to him.

"My grace (favor, loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you (sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully); for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in (your) weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9a  AMPC)

This passage lets us know that God is all for relationship with His children.  It is in those weaknesses that God comes to rescue and shows His loving-kindness toward us.  His power is more effective, complete and fufilled when we need Him most.

Paul learned a great deal about his own faith and the entire situation brought him closer to the Lord.  God's favor was all he needed.  It was more than enough for whatever he encountered.

Through this experience Paul shared how God delivered him through grace (unmerited favor).  The Lord's power was greater than man's in every circumstance.

God Will Give You Strength

Although it may be difficult, God wants us to come to the knowledge that we do need Him.  He does not think of us as "needy weaklings", but wants us to recognize that going to the Him for help acknowledges that we know He is the only One that can give us the solution we need for any situation. 

God is not shocked about anything we have done or over the thoughts that we think.  Nothing surprises Him or catches Him off guard.  He already knows and has the solution to any issue or problem that could ever happen!

"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthrew 11:28-30 NIV)

Notice ... He will not scold or think bad thoughts of those who seek Him.  As a matter of fact, Jesus welcomes the weary and burdened, and wants to shower His children with loving-kindness, favor and mercy. (Read James 1)

Go Back to Move Ahead

The Bible teaches of a time when King David was at his lowest.  Nothing was going right; his enemies were surrounding him and even his family was in trouble.  David kept asking God, "When are you going to deliver me ... where are You?  Why have you abandoned me when I need you the most?" (from Psalm 13 and 1 Samuel 22)

Does any of this sound familiar?  I know I have asked those very questions of God, and more than once!

It did not take long for David to change the tune of his "night song", for even his enemies knew that the favor of God and His presence caused him to succeed in all he did. (1 Samuel 18:14)

The King trusted in the Lord despite how things looked.  In order to keep going during a difficult time, he reflected on how the Lord brought him though every challenge leading him to victory.  He realized that God's hand of favor (mercy) was on him even when he did not recognize it.  At that moment he became strong in the Lord, and the power of God's might helped David overcome and move ahead.

"... but I trust in Your unfailing love.  I will rejoice because You have (in the past and will now) rescued me.  I will sing to the LORD because He is good to me." (Psalm 13:5-6 NLT emphasis mine)

There are plenty situations in my life when I know God's hand of favor surrounded me like a shield, and in the midst of trouble, I found strength to carry on when I did not know what to do.  Many of those stories I have shared with you over the years here on Daily Favor, but only after I have gone to the Lord in prayer.

Let me encourage you to think back on the time(s) when you were at the lowest point(s) in your life.  If you cannot remember a time, ask the Holy Spirit to remind you of the turning from weakness to "when you became strong".  Exactly what happened?

How did God work His power (favor and grace) through the situation?  When you were weak, how did God reveal His strength to you?   

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My (God’s) ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

(Isaiah 55:9 NKJV) 

What did you find out about yourself during that time of weakness?  How did you become stronger allowing God's favor to work turning your sadness into gladness?  Share some of those times with someone; your godly testimony could be the answer they have waited for all along in helping them to become strong.  

As you choose to believe in the Bible as God’s truth, may He favor you with His strength and that your confession will always be …

Let the weak say: “I am strong.”

Let the poor say: “I am rich.”

Let the blind say: “I can see.”

It’s what the Lord has done in me.

 

What the Lord Has Done in Me

 

Until next time, favored blessings!

 

“Believe I will take you from weak to strong.”

Jesus Christ 

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Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.

Note: When used, the words satan or devil are not capitalized deliberately, because we give him no place in our lives. 

Note: What the Lord Has Done In Me by Reuben Morgan 1998 Hillsong Publication/ Integrity Hosanna Music.

Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness.

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.

Content and Image Copyright from Favored1/Fay Ann Daniels unless noted. Do not copy.  

Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway.  Image Creative Common License if not specified.  

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Coming Unglued

Have you ever gone through a period in life where nothing seems to come together like you hoped for or planned?  I’m pretty sure that we’ve all experienced times like that, and we feel like if the Lord doesn’t intervene soon, we’re not going to make it. 

I took loads of deep breaths this week trying to hold back my emotions, but to be honest, it was a stretch to say the least.  Finally, my limits were about exhausted with the rudeness of a woman in a parking lot and I was ready to come unglued! 

Stuff Happens, It’s Called Life 

You know, we all go through those days when we say “if one more thing happens …”  and then it does!  I know … I get it.  Stuff happens, it’s called life.  Well, during those times it’s not always easy to remain calm and at peace while God works through us.  Can I get a witness? 

Perhaps, I need to back up a bit and fill you in on how I almost reached that point of having to eat my words and losing my testimony. 

Coming Unglued 

If you’re a regular on my teaching blog, you already know what’s been happening around my neck of the woods with hubby and daily living by faith.  Things have been somewhat strained, but we’re striving with the help of the Lord and friends by holding on to our confession for his healing. 

The schedule has been busy, but for the most part there has been progress. That’s when things started getting a little overwhelming and before I knew it, I was the one in the cardiologist’s office. 

About two weeks ago our refrigerator went on the blink and we lost almost everything in it.  These things happen I know, but this was the second time for this so called “new” refrigerator we purchased in 2020.  

Okay I thought, don’t panic … get some ice.  Well, that’s what I did and we managed to save a few items from the freezer in a cooler and unplugged the frig.

The same day the washer overflowed again, I stepped in cat poo and spew, my shoe broke and I didn’t have another pair, because they’ve all been glued so many times, they’re beyond wearing. 

It’s not that I cannot get shoes, but it’s hard to find them in my size without glitter, flashing lights or Disney characters on them!  Yes, I have small feet and not many companies make women’s shoes in smaller sizes!  One time I had to resort to kids shoes and they came with cherry lip balm!  Such fun! 

With so many businesses closing from COVID I had to make other arrangements.  No worries, God is good!  He allowed me to find shoes my size online.  Wow!  I was so excited when they arrived, but unfortunately, they didn’t fit. 

Once more, no worries … they were returned by UPS right away and I reordered another pair in the correct size.  Alright – we’re making headway, just be patient girl. 

That night we had just gotten to bed around 2:30 a.m. after cleaning up the messy refrigerator when my husband’s phone rang.  It was the credit card company telling us that our card was in question with fraudulent activity and it had been canceled for our protection.  They were extremely kind as they reviewed the activity that had taken place and said the charges would be removed. 

In the meantime, the shoes I reordered earlier that day were canceled by the company due to the card issue.  So, I went back to wearing my floppy glued shoes that came apart while I was walking. 

I Want to Go Home! 

The next day we had to change my husband’s phone number because of inappropriate calls that had been coming in for obviously the person who had the number previously.  I didn’t mind for me, but with hubby’s difficulty to recall things his number was something he actually remembered. 

Throughout the week I listened to more and more biblical teaching programs realizing that my patience and faith were being tested.  Everyday something new would happen … not big things always, but just enough to make you fly off the handle if someone said boo. 

I was finally able to get out and run errands. The only issue here is that everywhere I go my husband has to go with me, so it’s hard to get much accomplished. 

With one last stop my husband wasn’t up to walking so he asked if he could remain in the car.  Normally he has to go inside to sit or use one of those mobile carts, because it’s too hot to stay in a vehicle these days. 

Since I only had one thing to get and it was right inside the store doorway, I thought it would be fine and instructed him not to get out of the automobile.  He was still upset from the last stop I made at the bank when he came inside practically in tears, because he couldn’t remember how to use his phone. 

As part of cognitive therapy, I’ve been helping him relearn how to use the computer, review math, writing, memorization, and of course, use his phone to make a simple call along with other life management skills.  Ordering a take-out pizza would be an easy task normally, but for him it was confusing, even though he was given the information to complete the assignment. 

The bank teller was sympathetic as I assured hubby it was fine and that we’d do it together in a few minutes.  He was distraught and extremely upset with himself, so on our last stop I didn’t want him to relive that experience.  I agreed remaining in the car for a few minutes was the right thing to do. 

Watching him from the checkout, I quickly finished my purchase and hurried out to the vehicle.  Opening the door to get in, hubby kept saying “I want to go home.”   Trying to get situated I assured him we would soon be on our way. 

Being in such a rush I tried to close my wallet but it wouldn’t shut.  Stepping out of the car to give me more room, I leaned over the vehicle checking through my purse to see if I lost anything in my madness to cram everything in at the check-out. 

By now I was hot, exhausted, frustrated and had difficulty catching my breath.  Believe me, I wanted to go home as much as my husband did. 

Calgon, Take Me Away 

At that moment I heard a loud, rather harsh voice ask me if I could move and close the door so she could get into her truck.  Turning around I saw an extremely annoyed lady standing over me with a disgruntled look. 

My first instinct was to blast her with a few intellectual adjectives, but frankly I didn’t have the strength.  Besides, who was I kidding, I wouldn’t have said anything anyway.  Crying is more my style lately, but this time it was the inner voice of the Holy Spirit that kept me from reacting in my overtired state. 

In a low tone, I apologized and did as she asked.  Straight away she got into her vehicle, leaned over from the passenger’s side and turned on the engine so she could sit in the air conditioning.  

What was the big deal I thought, she wasn’t going anywhere?  She could have easily gone on the other side an entered her vehicle from the front. Couldn’t she tell I was frazzled?  You might have thought the bedraggled hairdo I was sporting, with sweat dripping from my face would have given her a clue something wasn’t exactly right.  Oh, Calgon, take me away! 

He’s Working It Out for Our Good 

Let’s face it, not everything in life is going to work out the way we planned or hoped.  We don’t always get the breaks we hoped for, but life isn’t supposed to be placed on hold because of some set-backs.  Hey, like I said, that’s why they call it “life” and sometimes simply living can take a toll on us if we forget God has allowed these tests/trials for a reason.

“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you.” (1 Peter 4:12) 

From the beginning of Creation, God planned for us to experience good things through His loving favor, but it is coupled with how we handle situations both good and bad.  Have we held our tongue during those moments of temptation?  Did our faith override carnal feelings allowing God to work things out for our good in His timing? 

“In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ …” (1 Peter 1:6-7) 

Our faith is so precious to the Lord that it is valued more than anything else, and satan knows that.  If we cave on the small stuff, then he already knows he can trap us when it comes to big decisions.  So, we shouldn’t be surprised when a test (or two or ten …) passes our way, especially on days when we have about reached our limit on how much more we think we can bear before blowing our testimony! 

Steadfast: Loyal, Unwavering, Unmovable 

Through all the tests and trials we experience, God is looking for something special about our faith.  He wants to see steadfastness – that is, a faith that is loyal, unwavering and unmovable even during the hard stuff.  

We learn in the Old Testament of the Bible how King David was aware of his own behavior during stressful times and what he did to rectify the situation.  He had no problem calling out to the LORD to help him remain steadfast, requesting a “Calgon” calming moment of “cleanliness” to the heart when responding to adverse situations. 

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10 NKJV) 

You see, we have to remember that God isn’t a “deal maker”, but a promise keeper.  He will uphold those who are steadfast to Him through rough times and be there through every test, trial or tribulation.  

The Lord isn’t watching us and saying, “You messed up so the deal is off”.  We’re humans that have fallen from grace … he KNOWS we’re going to get things wrong and miss it sometimes, that’s why we need His unmerited grace and favor every single day of our lives. 

God isn’t looking for perfect people, but repenting people with unwavering faith He can reward.  He notices when we remain faithful to His Word by not coming unglued when the devil tries to get us to fall from His grace (favor).  It demonstrates that we believe what He says regardless to how things look at the moment. 

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”  (1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV) 

A Change of Heart 

The day came to a close taking care of hubby, the rescues and whatever else that needed tending to before retiring in the wee hours of the morning.  Crawling into bed I grabbed my Bible to read and pray, making sure my last waking moments of the day were spent with the Lord.  

Instead of asking if I pleased the Lord in how I lived my life today, it went something like this … 

“Lord, I am embarrassed by my behavior and failure to trust in Your faithfulness during this testing period.  You already know how I feel and what I will encounter throughout the day.  

You have promised not to leave or forsake me, but guide me to a good path and victory.  I am humbled by Your never-ending mercy and favor.  

Thank You Holy Spirit for leading me in the right direction so I did not sin against God.  For continually reminding me of Your truth … calming me down and creating a new heart in me to show compassion for others not knowing what they too could be facing in life. 

You are my joy and strength when I am weak, loving me through it all….” 

It’s easy to lash out, question and doubt God when we’re at our wits end, “Why Lord would You bring me here to this place where I feel I can’t handle it and am overwhelmed?”  Here’s the reason.  It’s not about me (or you) but those we’ve somehow connected with, so they can see the favor and treasures God had in store for those who remained steadfast and faithful to the end. 

God expects us to give an account of what we’ve done for His Son, the Savior that loved us so much that He gave His life on the Cross that we might live in Heaven with Him one day.  He knows we get tired, weary, discouraged and downhearted.  God is not oblivious to what’s going on in our lives and doesn’t judge when we’ve fallen, but looks beyond human weaknesses waiting for us to ask for His help.  

Christ invites us to come to Him for rest, a breather so to speak when we feel we can’t walk one more step.  He wants us to lean on Him not only during the difficult times when we’re about to come unglued, but all the time. 

“Come to Me, all you who are tired from labor and carrying heavy burdens (overburdened), and I will cause you to rest relieving and easing your burdens, refreshing your soul.” (taken from Matthew 11:28 emphasis mine) 

The following evening, we decided to plug in the refrigerator to see what would happen.  Several hours went by and praise the Lord – it started getting cold!  It was working!  How about that?! 

Wonder what happened with the shoe issue?  My feet are strutting a pair of new white shoes – without glitter or flashing lights!  

My husband is doing better in his cognitive training, and managing phone skills better.  As for my heart, both spiritually and physically are in good order! 

When It’s All Been Said and Done 

Friends, we’re never going to escape every problem we encounter, that’s just the way it is.  How we prepare, plan, preserver and pursue the Lord is key to receiving His Divine unmerited grace, mercy and daily favor. 

Do people notice that when things get rough, I serve a God of Truth who remains faithful to His promises?  Can they see His unmerited favor on my life because of steadfastness to His commands?  

Am I worthy of the call on my life?  Are my words or actions said and done in love so that they draw people to Jesus?  Do I reflect the ways of this world by becoming unglued and not standing the test or trial, looking to a type of “Calgon” for the rest I need for a weary soul?  

In the end, when it’s all been said and done, Jesus isn’t going to ask whether I accomplished everything on my to-do list or was nice to everyone I met … that’s why there is forgiveness.  He won’t care how many viewed my blog posts or wonder how many followers I have on social media. 

There won’t be any hype or fame from the riches I’ve gained nor praises over what was achieved.  No indeed … but one day He will ask how did my life testify of His love as my Lord and Savior so that it converted sinners into Saints.  

What do you think He’ll ask you? 

When It's All Been Said and Done (Robin Mark)

Until next time, steadfastly walk in God’s favor. 

My steadfast love never ceases, my mercy and favor are new every morning!  - Jesus

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Unglued: Making Wise Choices in the Midst of Raw Emotions by Lysa TerKeurst

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Scriptures for Worship, Holiness, and the Nature of God: Keys to Godly Insight and Steadfastness by John Eckhardt

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Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.

Content and Image Copyright from Fay Ann Daniels aka Favored1. Do not copy.  

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief. 

Unless noted, scripture reference is taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway. Image Image 2 Inage 3  Image 4 Creative Common License if not specified.  

Labels: Coming Unglued, Steadfastness, Stress, Trials, Tribulation, Faithfulness, Promises of God, Favor, God’s Promises, Weary, Burdens, Prayer, Fay Ann Daniels, Daily Favor Blog, Where Faith and Favor Meet, Favored1, Prayer.

When I Am Weak

The story you are about to read isn’t us, but someone else.  Well, that’s what my husband wanted me to tell you, but as you know, that isn’t how I roll here.

I’ve been in a state of unrest and haven’t been able to shake it.  I did something that I’ve never done before in my life … I googled the news!  Gasp!

Why I did that I haven’t a clue, but it seemed that all week long the same sort of “news” has been coming into my life.  Frankly I think I was trying to avoid the obvious on what I was supposed to share this week.  Who wants to talk about times of struggle when you feel “unfavored” by God or man?

 

Let me take you back to where this all started, last Saturday (10/3/15).

Welcome new friends this week from:

See if your city/state/country made the list. 

New on DFB – Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan; Cairo, Egypt; Lyngdal, Vest-Agder, Norway; Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India; Davao City, Philippines; Edmonton, AB, Canada; Portugal; Denmark; Vietnam; Warri, Delta State, Nigeria; Durban, KwaZulu-Natak, South Africa.

USA – Port Arthur, TX; Kennedy, NY; Raleigh, NC; Morgantown, WV; New Britain, CT; Erie, PA; Palm Harbor, FL. 

Thank you for your continued support and sharing Believing Our Belief on Daily Favor.  (DFB - Daily Favor Blog) Living my life before God and man, by sharing experiences as I walk out my faith.

You are welcome to leave comments or prayer requests below.  All are private. I would love to hear from you and how Daily Favor has worked in your life.  Contact me by leaving a message in the box at the bottom of this week’s post.  

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Not So Hot Topic 

We set our alarms for 6 A.M. on Saturday; that was probably our first mistake.  The day was filled with things we needed to do, so taking a quick trip to the store early would clear the rest of the day for the activities.  Now that I look back on it, maybe it was an underlying course of events set in motion by my husband so he wouldn’t have to clean out the shed!  Nah … 

It was chilly that morning so we decided to get something warm to eat and a cup of hot decaf coffee to go.  The “fast” food restaurant delivered our coffee fifteen minutes later. Did I mention I wanted hot coffee? They obviously didn’t get that message since it was anything but hot when we finally got it.   

My husband returned to the counter and asked if he could get a hot cup.  Next came the unveiling of his sausage sandwich, only to reveal it was sausageless.  (I know it’s not a word, but it fits.)  Round two – back to the counter.  I won’t even go into the rest of what happened; moving on to our next destination. 

Back to the Future 

I should take a step back to tell you that we had already gone grocery shopping on Friday, yep that’s right … so we wouldn’t have to go on Saturday.  We were making a second visit to take back the packaged “fresh” spinach that was bad, and to get a phone number from the electronics department to resolve a problem.  It was less than twelve hours since we were at the store.   

My husband returned the smelly spinach to customer service. He said I don’t even know where it is, but I do. I just choose to not go in there.  He’s better at staring people down than I am.  Just kidding! 

Caught with no make-up! Sorry, I take a terrible selfie.
See any lines?  Don't tell me if you do!

Okay, I should be honest since this blog is about what actually happens in my life.  After he finished at the returns counter hubby caught me in the cosmetic department looking for a facial cream to reduce wrinkles. 

 

I keep asking him if he sees any, but he says I don’t need it because I don’t have any.  Hmm … I’d ask you but your answer may be different than his! 

After about twenty minutes I decided on a sale item (probably not a good idea either) that claims to reduce the “appearance” of fine lines.  I was happy with that.  Tackle them before they arrive! 

What do you want me to do? “Yes” 

Leaving that department we went to the electronic section to see if we could get a phone number for the Straight Talk company my husband buys his contract from each month.  He had bought a card the night before and it didn’t give him the minutes when it was activated, so he needed to contact them about the error. 

While on the phone he lost service on his phone and had to use mine.  I decided to look around and wait for him thinking it wouldn’t be long.  Leaning over my cart I reached in my pocket to put on some hand cream.  When I squeezed the tube it shot out all over my coat, past the cart and onto the floor.  All I could do was laugh and then I glanced over to hubby. 

Boy was he in a fit.  With every question he asked, the “helps line” answered, “Yes.” He was getting nowhere with them. Not only was he still having trouble, the company told him to turn off his phone until they got things squared away that day.  During the call my battery ran out and now neither was working.  It wasn’t until late in the day that his phone worked, but the problem wasn’t resolved. 

Our items had been scanned, bagged, in the cart and it was time to pay the bill.  Sliding the debit card we saw on the screen, “Card denied, use another form of payment.” No matter how many times my husband and the clerk tried to get it to work, it wouldn’t.  I stood there guarding our cart while my husband went to the bank in the store and took out the money before returning to pay the bill. 

Return to Sender 

Making our way to the last store for the “sale” on specific items, at the register we discovered that it wasn’t for the products that I put back in the other store the night before, because as I confidently said to my husband, “I can get it cheaper.”  Now we would have to make trip three back to the previous store! 

The cream cheese that was on sale in the flyer turned out to have an expiration date July 2015 on the bottom of the container, and it was still on the shelves.  I was okay with not buying into that sale, if you know what I mean.  To make sure no one else would buy the cream cheese, I took all the expired ones to the cashier.  I’m not so sure they didn’t end up back on the shelf instead of returning them to the wholesaler. 

During my time in the store I had to use the rest room. You already know what happened don’t you? The potty drain was clogged.  As the tank water was rising I pleaded, “Please Lord, don’t let it run over.” 

 

Thankfully there was a plunger in there (something I can’t remember ever seeing in a store restroom).  Another first for me in a public facility!  

My hubby didn’t think I should share that part, but I remarked, “Except for Jesus and my Dad of course, this is something that happens to Christians and it’s not a sin to talk about it ... just maybe a bit uncouth.” 

The Fertilizer is Back 

After dinner my husband put together an “easy to assemble” 12” wide x 8” deep media storage tower. It didn’t match anything, but we believed God’s favor was on us when we only paid $11.00 for it.  He couldn’t buy the wood to make one at that price.  Upon completion we discovered the item didn’t exactly meet the need we had hoped for, even after careful measuring it was a bit small. 

So that’s how the events started after posting last Friday’s “Fertilizer in Faith” topic, and it sort of went that way for most of the week.  No they’re not really awful things, but a constant struggle over dumb stuff that happens to practically everyone at some point in their life.  

Even that cream has my eye twitching for five days now.  Don’t tell hubby, but he was probably right when it came to buying that stuff. He “googled” why my eye was doing a dancing gig, only to find out it could also be caused by lack of sleep or stress.  Do you think ten hours a week isn’t enough sleep?  Maybe I should work on that … once I get a sitter to monitor hubby at night.   

Laughter Meds 

For the most part I’m pretty even tempered when it comes to my dealing with things, and I remain positive or joyful.  However, this week at times I felt like crying from frustration seeing my husband having difficulties, reading the tragic things on the web didn’t help, hearing about so many dying made me sad, and finding more health problems with hubby had me near the weakest emotional point I’ve experienced in some time.  

Trying to work through the “fertilizer” was a work of faith and definitely favor from the Lord.  

Meeting up with some friends who had a problem was probably not what the doctor would have ordered, but it was the grace of God that led us to this outing together.  Our friends had encountered a serious problem that they hoped my husband could help them with if he could.   

Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, and is actually an expression of humility. The Lord expects us to call on one another for help and to give godly counsel when we can.  Those who do not join together in like faith with others in the Body of Christ will not receive the favor of God, because they are leaving out the main member – Christ.  He is the one who has bestowed gifts throughout His church, and we are to be partakers of what God has made available to us.   

“Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me!

For my soul trusts in You;

And in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge,

Until these calamities have passed by.” (Psalm 57:1 NKJV) 

In the middle of the conversation a spirit of laughter came over me for the remainder of our time together, and all I could do was burst into laughing whenever my friend looked at me.  I wasn’t being disrespectful, but God had allowed me to see joy in something satan was trying to turn into devastating.   

A few hours later we met up with them again to hear the report from the doctor for my friend (this wasn’t the situation they presented when we met earlier).  When she shared what the doctor said was wrong with her we laughed even harder.  We were not moved but chose to believe.  By faith and through prayer we already knew it would be a good report, because we believed God would be faithful to His word. 

“He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense;

I shall not be greatly moved.” (Psalm 62:2 NKJV) 

The spirit of joy remained on us all and the next day my friend called to report the situation was totally resolved!  Turning to the Lord for help in a time of weakness allowed God to work on the problems for each couple, and showed Him to be strong. 

“And He (Jesus) said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you,

for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” 

Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the

power of Christ may rest upon me.”  (2 Corinthians 12:9 NKLV) 

Our weakness is a platform for God’s Strength – Priscilla Shirer

 

In Weakness We See Compassion 

Over and over I asked the Lord what He wanted me to share, and I suppose that’s why I went on the web hoping to find a clue to what God was revealing to me.  It was in a post I read by a friend named Danny that brought some closure to my search.

Read Danny's post.

The things that were happening in my life weren’t life altering really, but more along the line of attitude alerts and awakenings to the grace of God that is on our lives daily.  

Danny is an Asian American, and within that culture there are customs or lifestyles that are maintained from generation to generation. At times some of these can be challenging and bring us to feeling weak, especially as a believer. 

 

I love how open he is when Danny shares that “he doesn’t always have it all together.”  In other words, stuff happens, even to Christians. 

With permission I share an excerpt from his post: 

“The last month has been incredibly challenging to say the least. One thing I have noticed particularly in Asian American culture (at least in my family) is that "getting help" is taboo. If we ask for help, it means that we are weak and that we are bad. Worse yet, if you're an Asian American Christian, to struggle means that you don't have God's favor, and that's really bad.  

When we're weak, it shows everyone else in our tribe that we are incompetent or unworthy. As a result, we try to hide so that we don't look shameful or unworthy; but what if we began to actually admit our weaknesses. What if instead of pretending that we need to have it all together to hide our weaknesses, we celebrated weakness as a reality of life … and that when good things happened to us, it is a result of God's grace, not our own efforts.”  

My friend goes on to share that for us to think any strength, victory, success or fortune are a result of our efforts is exhausting and really a lie the devil would like us to believe.  You see, if we actually think these things can be achieved on our own, it would mean we don’t believe the message of the cross.  Without believing in Jesus Christ, the grace and favor of God cannot be activated in the life of a believer, therefore the weak only become weaker.   

When we choose to believe our Lord, we witness the compassion He has for us through the favor blessing of grace and mercy.  It is then we receive the benefits of the cross of Jesus. 

“Remember my affliction and roaming, the wormwood and the gall.

My soul still remembers and sinks within me.

This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope.

Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed,

because His compassions fail not.” (Lamentations 3:19-22 NKJV)

 

Weakness Made Strong 

When I was with my friend it was during a time of weakness when things weren’t falling into place.  She had no idea of what we were experiencing. That morning I prayed for the Lord to guide our conversation, grant me His favor, wisdom and understanding so that I could bless my friend(s). Knowing that the Lord is my strength and shield I entered into fellowship with believers. God met us there overturning the table on the devil. 

As Danny pointed out, the scriptures remind us in the times of weakness that is where God can be found strong, not only to us, but to unbelievers.  We will see the favor of God through His grace and mercy when we admit, “Lord, I’m physically and emotionally exhausted. I need you to intervene.”  

Let us come to the understanding that weakness isn’t a sign of failure, but knowledge of the need for Christ and a lesson in humility.  When we truly believe God’s Word others will see what the Lord has done through us. 

My situation isn’t like Danny’s, those in other lands or even yours.  The things I shared may seem trivial, but I assure you there are other circumstances we are trusting in God for that are quite serious.  In all situations I need my Savior, His grace, mercy, favor and unfailing love.  

“Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak,

then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10 NKJV) 

It is during all those times that in my weakness God is made strong and where I see what the Lord has done in me.  When I become a vessel He can use amazing things happen in my life that allow God to be glorified. 

I see how He has turned sadness into gladness, mourning into joy, hardship into fellowship and messes into messages.  Through it all my husband and I found renewed strength and have not fainted (we’re still working on the running part). 

“But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength;

They shall mount up with wings like eagles,

They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”

(Isaiah 40:31 NKJV)

 

This Week’s Challenge:

When You Became Strong 

It’s not easy admitting that we have weaknesses to others, but saying it to the Lord is different.

 

Sometimes we think that if we confess we need someone or something it means we don’t have a handle on things and are weak people.   

Another thing we have to understand is that just because things aren’t peachy in our lives doesn’t mean God’s favor has left us. On the contrary, it may be those very hardships that God is using to extend His blessings and favor on us in ways we wouldn’t have ordinarily noticed. 

Although it may be difficult, God wants us to come to the knowledge that we do need Him.  He also wants us to recognize that going to the Lord for help acknowledges that we know He is the only one that can give us the solution we need for every situation. 

God doesn’t scold us or think bad thoughts of those who seek Him.  As a matter of fact, He welcomes it and loves to shower His children with loving kindness. (See James 1)

Our challenge this week is to think of the times when we were at our lowest and how God worked His power through the situation.  When you were weak, how did God reveal His strength to you?   

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My (God’s)

ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

(Isaiah 55:9 NKJV) 

What did you find out about yourself during that time of weakness? I’d like you to share some of those times with someone and me if you feel led (as I have confided in you).  

As we choose to believe in the Bible as God’s truth, may our confessions always be …

Let the weak say: “I am strong.”

Let the poor say: “I am rich.”

Let the blind say: “I can see.”

It’s what the Lord has done in me.

 

What the Lord Has Done in Me

 

Until next time, may God favor you with His strength.

 

“Believe I will take you from weak to strong.”

Jesus Christ 

Note: The words satan or devil are not capitalized deliberately, because we give him no place in our lives.

Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness. 

What’s New This Week: Click on link below.

The Power of Weakness:

Embracing the True Source of Strength

By Dan Schaeffer 

 

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Content and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy. 

Scripture reference was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway.
Image credit: Google Images or Dreamstime Creative Common License if not specified.
Image:  Action News  Proverbs 17:22  2 Corinth. 12: 9 &10

Note: What the Lord Has Done In Me by Reuben Morgan 1998 Hillsong Publication/ Integrity Hosanna Music.

*Special thanks to Danny Kimm for sharing his walk with Christ.

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.