What does it mean that when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:10)?

Answer

Scripture uses paradoxes to communicate profound messages, one of which is found in 2 Corinthians 12:10, “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Let’s explore the context of 2 Corinthians 12 to illuminate Paul’s words.

When Paul wrote the second letter, the church in Corinth was under siege by false apostles. These impostors claimed superiority over Paul, displaying self-confidence and boasting about their background and achievements to manipulate the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 11:19-20). They desired to be seen as “super-apostles” (verse 5). In response, Paul sarcastically decides to boast like the false apostles. However, instead of boasting about his achievements, he talks about his sufferings and weaknesses (2 Corinthians 11:23-33). While maintaining this “boast,” he recounts a supernatural encounter (2 Corinthians 12:1-6), then shifts to an undisclosed “thorn in my flesh” given to prevent him “from becoming conceited” (verse 7). The exact nature of this thorn is unclear, but it was unpleasant enough for Paul to pray for its removal. He writes, “Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me” (verse 8). However, God’s response is a “no,” or more specifically, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (verse 9). God’s answer brings comfort to Paul, who understands the purpose of the thorn.

Similar to the apostle Paul, we should not be ashamed of our weaknesses, whatever they may be. For some, it could be a persistent illness that God has not removed. Other weaknesses might include

De shyness, poverty, illiteracy, or speech impediments. We all have limitations and tend to conceal them, striving to appear stronger than we truly are. Paul offers an alternative perspective: showing gratitude for our weaknesses.

The beauty of weakness lies not in the weakness itself, but in how God’s power shines through it. Consequently, Paul could call himself strong even in weakness. Our limitations remind us of our finitude, which, in turn, leads us to God. It is remarkable how His strength radiates through our weaknesses. Consider the example of Joni Eareckson Tada, a quadriplegic whose story has inspired many and through whom God continues to showcase His strength.

Paul’s concept of embracing weakness runs counter to prevailing beliefs about the Christian journey. In many circles, acknowledging weakness is seen as a lack of faith. However, the Bible does not deny human weaknesses. On the contrary, it affirms that we are inadequate without the Almighty (see Psalm 121:2; Jeremiah 17:5; 2 Corinthians 3:5; Philippians 4:13). Apart from Jesus, we “can do nothing” «I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. », (John 15:5). Pretending to be strong and boasting about one’s aptitude are characteristics of false teachers, and there’s no need for us to live in falsehood.

Furthermore, in Paul’s personal testimony, “When I am weak, then I am strong,” teaches us that there are instances when God may answer a prayer request with a “no.” This truth can be challenging to accept. But, even on a human level, if an individual has difficulty saying “no,” it’s considered a fault. Some things should be said “no” to. God is not a “yes man,” and the purpose of prayer isn’t to obtain our desires.

It is crucial to desire to align ourselves with God’s will as much as Paul did. Paul understood this priceless lesson, and we will be blessed if we follow his example.