When Weakness Becomes A Window

Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church

August 9th Sermon, Day 3

Nobody signs up for suffering. We pray for healing, for open doors, for smooth paths. And there is nothing wrong with that. But what happens when the hard season does not lift as quickly as we hoped? Paul offers us a perspective that is both challenging and deeply freeing. He says that carrying the death of Jesus in our bodies is actually how the life of Jesus gets put on display. In other words, our struggles are not just obstacles to endure. They can become windows through which others see Christ.

Think about the people in your life who have shaped your faith the most. Chances are, at least one of them walked through something incredibly difficult and trusted God anyway. Their faith did not shine brightest when everything was easy. It shone brightest when everything was hard. That is the ministry of weakness. When you are struggling and still choosing to trust, people notice. Not because suffering is beautiful on its own, but because Jesus shining through it is. You may feel like your current season disqualifies you from being a light to others. But it may actually be your greatest opportunity. God does not waste a single tear. Not one sleepless night, not one whispered prayer through grief. He is working, even now.

Bible Verse

"We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." - 2 Corinthians 4:10

Reflection Question

Can you think of a time when someone else's faith during suffering strengthened your own? What did their example teach you about God?

Quote

People oftentimes see Jesus most clearly in you and me when we trust Him during our suffering. It's not because the suffering is beautiful. It's only beautiful because Jesus shines through it.

Prayer

Jesus, I do not always understand why hard seasons last as long as they do. But I trust that You are working through them. Let my life be a window to Your grace, even in the struggle. Amen.