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| Finding strength in stillness and grace in the light. |
When I was young and competing in track and field, I encountered athletes who were far stronger and more experienced than I was, particularly in the 400-meter hurdles. I felt small and inadequate because I only began serious training at 17, while many of my competitors had started around the age of 10. Trying to make up for lost time, I poured myself into training, but I couldn’t shake the feeling of hopelessness, especially when I aimed to compete at a national level, only to discover that my state had already selected its athletes. Yet, despite the odds stacked against me, I trusted in God. I trained as if I still had a chance, believing that He might open a door for me. Eventually, my coach, who had some connections, surprised me by offering an unexpected opportunity: I could compete for another state. This moment became a turning point in my athletic journey, and it taught me a valuable lesson about God’s timing and His grace.
Through this experience, I witnessed firsthand how God’s providence works. Recognizing my limitations allowed me to see beyond my own actions and decisions. Outside of anything I could control, God used my coach and other circumstances to create a path I hadn’t expected. Looking back, I understand that my perseverance and faith were not in vain. God was working all along, orchestrating events in ways I couldn’t see. This experience showed me that God’s grace truly operates outside my understanding or control, often using people and situations to accomplish His purpose. I learned to trust that, even if my plans didn’t work out, His provision would always be enough.
A key lesson from Paul’s words is that “power is made perfect in weakness.” In my life, I interpret this as trusting God even when I don’t see a clear path. I recognize now that my “thorn” is my struggle with doubt and my tendency to need control. I often feel the need to know every detail and understand every step before I can fully commit to an action. This desire for control is my constant challenge, a reminder to release my grip and trust that God’s strength will support me where mine falls short. In moments of doubt, I remember that God’s power shines through my surrender, that His strength is most evident when I rely less on my own understanding and more on His guidance.
To keep my focus on God and remind myself of His sufficiency, I have developed practices that help me trust Him daily. I pray about my struggles and thank Him for both the challenges and the blessings. I read the Bible, meditate on verses that remind me of His promises, and take steps of faith, even if I can’t see the outcome. A verse that often grounds me is Mark 11:24, which says, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” This promise strengthens my trust in God and reassures me that He hears my prayers and guides my steps. By filling my mind with His Word, I can walk forward, knowing that His grace is indeed sufficient.
Reflecting on my journey, I see how God’s strength has guided me through every uncertainty. From learning to trust in His timing, witnessing His unexpected provision, and facing my need for control, I’ve come to see how God’s grace truly is enough. Through these experiences, I have learned that my weaknesses are not barriers to growth but opportunities to experience God’s strength, wisdom, and love. By trusting in Him, I can face challenges with a faith grounded in the knowledge that His grace will always carry me through.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you ever faced a situation where you felt inadequate or out of control? How did your faith play a role in that experience?
- What are some “thorns” or personal struggles that challenge you to rely more on God’s strength rather than your own?
- How do you remind yourself of God’s grace and strength during moments of weakness or uncertainty?
- Are there particular Bible verses or stories that give you encouragement when you feel vulnerable or powerless?
I would love to hear your stories and reflections in the comments! Sharing our experiences can be a powerful way to encourage each other, reminding us that we are not alone in our journeys and that God’s grace is indeed sufficient for every challenge we face.