“My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” – Psalm 73:26 (NKJV)
I don’t know how often I have said, Lord, give me strength. Years ago, I was given a bracelet with the verse, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13 (NKJV). I wear it on the days I continuously seem to need reminding that I am not alone in my worries and burdens. The script is faded, but I know what it says and represents. Sometimes, we need reminding that we are not alone in our struggles.
The strength that we get from Christ and His Word is immeasurable. Without His strength, how do we do anything in this life and do it with grace? The Lord works in our weakness. Look at Paul, who was beaten and imprisoned three times for preaching the Gospel. Had he not been in prison several times, he wouldn’t have written the Epistles. He sent others in his place to the churches, but he used his time writing letters to them and praying. Strength can come from the burdens laid upon us.
The Bible is full of stories of people with flaws and weaknesses. We may be weak in our emotional and physical strength. but spiritual strength can come from our flaws and burdens. When we reflect on His promises, He fills us with hope. He strengthens us in not giving up but to keep going.
Don’t underestimate who He is and the power of prayer. Too many of us try to carry our burdens alone. Matthew 11:29 (NIV) says, “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.”
I have carried many burdens through the years but along the way, I learned to ask Jesus for help. He has lifted me through times when I felt I couldn’t go on. I can attest He is real, and He is truth. I can attest to His promises and the teachings in His Word. I can attest that nobody loves me the way He loves me. Through His love, He gives me strength.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, You have nourished me in the darkest of times. You have strengthened me when I was at my weakest. I ask that others come to know you through the burdens they carry and the hardships they face. Show them that Your strength will not fail them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Written by: Laurie Davis
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Thank you God for continuing to love me. For giving me the strength and courage to get through each day.
Amen