For when I am weak, then I am strong."
--2 Corinthians 12:10(NIV)
Well, I would beg to differ with that assessment. Would you? On the contrary, this little one exuded pre-existent strength and courage, that may have not been realized or drawn upon without the peer pressure scenario unfolding.
The Scriptures are laced with similar examples. Consider David, when he was faced with a giant (I Samuel 17)--he engaged with the mindset of a victor. Despite being chided and insulted by Goliath. Why couldn't antics, words, and intimidation get the best of him? Why didn't he avoid the giant like everyone else? Because of what became activated in his heart when he was opposed by a lion and a bar. He soundly defeated them. He was familiar with his gifts and he had a relationship with the Giver of gifts.
Consider the wise woman in 2 Samuel 20--she engaged with the mindset of a victor. How? She knew God and she was wise. When Joab was ready to destroy an entire city because he wanted one man, Sheba--she bravely intervened. Her orchestrating an effort to slay Sheba, saved an entire city.
Even if you feel weak or a little shaky, it does not mean that you do not have gifts onboard (Ephesians 4:8). Consider the life of Gideon (Judges 6) who lived in total fear and avoidance. He was found hiding from the Midianites threshing wheat behind the winepress when God identified him as a mighty man of valor. Gideon's response? "You got the wrong guy. I'm weak, poor, and the least in my father's house." But he had pre-existing gifts he did not have knowledge of until he engaged in battle.
We, as human beings, will be routinely confronted with opposition. How we view opposition and respond to them is critical. Are we viewing through the lens of victim or victor? When we opt to view opposition through the lens of victim, we miss something vital. When we choose to confront opposition, it often reveals not only the gifts that God has given each of us which may be lying dormant or unrecognized, but also his might and power.
It could be that what is opposing us is the very thing God is allowing to be a catalyst in revealing unforetold strength and courage.
Prayer
Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank you that in you there is no defeat and there are no victims. We thank you that you call us more than conquerors. May our minds be renewed with the truth of your word--that we are strong, mighty, and brave as you have given us the ability to succeed and excel. May we walk in your truths with uplifted heads (Psalm 27:6) and steadfast hearts (Psalm 57:7).
Amen and so be it according to your word.
Tune in to our latest podcast, "Accessing Your Inner Victor" as well for more sharing on this topic!