Are you kidding me right now? I should take delight in insults? That’s what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 12:20. Check it out:
“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.”
And as I read those words, God reminds me I have a bit of a ways to go before I fully embrace this verse. I’m all about the strong part, because I know for sure all my strength comes from God. It’s the “take delight in weakness, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, and in difficulties” that I seem to struggle.
It’s funny how God uses difficult situations to teach us life lessons. Lately it seems God is giving me an extra dose of practice time to find my delight in insults and difficulties, and it’s had me in a bit of a funk. But when words like this leap off the page of scripture at the exact time I need them, I know my God is growing me, and it makes my heart smile. Though the “delight” may not be there quite yet in my circumstances, I’m thinking joy will come in the morning!
What about you? Are you having a hard time taking delight in your current situation? I want to encourage you to dig into the scriptures and let His words ease your tender heart. I promise there is not another who understands you and knows your needs more than your Heavenly Father. Though you may feel weak, God says you are strong!
