“This happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead… He will deliver us, yet again, as you help us by your prayers.” 2 Cor. 1:9-11
Heavenly Father, the Apostle Paul was too smart to be tricked by the lies of autonomy and isolation. To him, weakness unto Abba-dependence was a better education than Harvard, more to be prized than gold mines, trophies galore, and the praise of men. We want to be more like Paul, Abba.
Indeed, the Gospel freed Paul from any “need” to be omni-competent and impressive. I don’t remember a single verse in Paul’s letters where he said something remotely close to, “You guys go on. I’ve got this one.”
Being responsible is one thing, but hoarding our vulnerability and “putting lipstick” on our neediness is quite another. Father, help us forsake the illusion of our “enough-ness.” Free us to rely on you— “the God who raises the dead.” Help us own our limits, collapse on Jesus, and entrust our weakness to praying friends.
I’m watching this happen right now on this big ship, floating between icebergs and feeding whales in the Alaska waters. It’s amazing what the Gospel can do among 700 strangers—sharing buffets of grace, good food, creation wonder, and those blessed words… “Me too, I need Jesus in fresh ways too.” Vulnerability and kindness have never been more attractive to me, or the Gospel more precious. Thank you for being “the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort” (2 Cor. 1:3). We are feasting both of these on this big “love boat.” So Very Amen.
(A small bit of context… Steven Curtis Chapman and I are currently leading an Alaskan Cruise. The Lord is very present, and we appreciate your prayers for our final 4 days.)