How are we strong when we are weak?

I never used to understand 2 Cor 9-10, (NASB): "And He has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness'"..."

and in verse 10, "...for when I am weak, then I am strong."

But then I thought about what my mother said when my dear grandmother passed away 3 years ago almost to the day this month, that as she'd aged she'd lost so many thing, including even her cherished ability to read (even with a magnifier) and play bridge even with the huge-font cards...yet she withstood it all in stride, with grace, as was her name, Grace Laurie.

Two days ago, in a devotional, I read a scripture saying that most of us have trouble with the loss of capability that aging brings. But when we are gradually stripped of everything propping us up--whatever it may be--we learn to lean on Him more, and on other Believers more.

Thus, when we get weaker, we learn--or should learn--to get stronger in our faith in the Lord, for His power is made perfect (or how about 'perfectly clear') in our weakness.

I've seen this in myself. As I've struggled with my many knee surgeries and lost my ability to run and lift heavy things, I've had to ask for help...and now the Lord is laying it more and more on my heart to help others.

In the past, it was all about me. The big marathon runner, the big powerlifter. I guess I inspired some people...but not much more.

Now, though, it's more about reaching out and lifting up others where I can, and helping and connnecting.

I feel a new priority in my life--to help others, and also to let myself lean on them more.

Praise God, His power is made more and more perfectly perfect as we are made weaker!

Love y'all,
Tam