I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses. (2 Cor. 12:5)
After even a quick look, you would realize that one simple, unadorned home in our neighborhood is neither the most beautiful nor the most valuable. However, that house proved itself one of the strongest as it withstood a 6.4 earthquake in Albania. Surveying damage in the wake of aftershocks, we were most concerned about the family living there since they were the poorest in our church. We suspected that they would have suffered the most. However, we were surprised to find the opposite. The most modest of homes had proved its worth. The family had not even felt the quakes due to the house’s strong foundation.
Rather than strengths, Paul boasted about his weaknesses. His strength was not his own but instead came from God. Being whipped and stoned or experiencing shipwrecks and much persecution could not shake his strong foundation!
The COVID-19 pandemic probably surprised every one of us, just like the earthquake did Albania. Whether it is a pandemic, an earthquake, or something else, we all will encounter hardship at some time. What varies is our reaction and ability to weather it well. When we face unexpected problems, we realize the value of a strong spiritual foundation. How much time we have spent reading God’s Word, praying, and trusting him through the years prior is our hidden strength shining through in times of weakness and difficulty.
Read God’s Word and pray as if your future depends on it.
Caryl Aukerman is a wife, missionary, and mother of three, and has served with Global Partners in the country of Albania for over fifteen years.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
