The Weak and Downcast

When I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:10) weakness is inner strength.

It's often said that it's when you're weakest that you're strongest. This couldn't be truer than in the case of Paul, a man who was afflicted with a "splinter in the flesh"which caused him great suffering. Despite his many trials, Paul persevered, and God used his weakness to show his strength.

So Paul writes: "For it is when I am weak that I am strong. In other words, it's through our weakness that God shows his power. By depending on his strength, we can overcome any obstacle. So, the next time we find ourselves facing a difficult situation, let's remember that God is with us, and that he will use our weakness to show his strength.

While it's certainly not always easy to be joyful, thankful and prayerful, these things are important for Christians, because it's God's will for us. When we're joyful, we exalt God and thank him for all the good things he's done for us. This attitude of joy will also make us more inclined to pray without ceasing - to be continually aware of God's presence in our lives and to talk to him throughout the day.

What's more, being thankful in all things - even difficult circumstances - reminds us that God is sovereign and in control. It can be easy to focus on our problems and think that things will never get better, but when we take the time to thank God for His goodness, we can begin to see His hand at work even in the midst of difficulties. Therefore, let us always be joyful, pray without ceasing and give thanks in all things, knowing that this is God's perfect will for our lives.

However, it's easy to be grateful when life is going well. But what about when things are tough?

When we're faced with challenges and difficulties, it can be hard to see the bright side. Yet the Bible tells us to give thanks in all circumstances (1Thessalonians 5:18). Why do we do this?

Because being thankful reminds us that God is sovereign and in control. No matter what we're facing, he's always on the throne. And his promise is that he will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

So even when things are tough, we can take comfort in knowing that our God is still in charge. And that's something we can be thankful for.