Delighting in weakness

Today the Beth Moore bible study brought me to 2 Corinthians 9-10. Paul has just acknowledged the thorn in his side--which he's asked God to remove.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 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.

Delighting in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in difficulties! What difficulties am I facing, what difficulties can I delight in? Not being in control of Lee's next career move and how it will impact me and the girls. I delight in the idea that I must pray, PRAY, to you Lord. I will take the news as it comes, stay in the moment, concentrate on loving you and others in your name.

I need to decide whether or not to write a letter for Isabel to get Mrs. Lupiani again, this time for third grade. This is minor, and yet important, too. What's most important is for me to realize my weakness in this situation. I can't predict which teacher would be best for Isabel, and I can only make a decision based on what I know now--which is that Isabel loves and respects Mrs. Lupiani.

I would like to start up a devotion with the girls again. Why did I let it fall to the wayside? Because I felt I wasn't doing justice to the material, that I hadn't prepared well enough. I will delight in my weakness! I will forge ahead anyway, let you teach them through my limited abilities. I will show up and try my best, knowing that you can work through my weakness.

Tonight we'll have dinner with Mom and Dad and Jay and Ann. I pray for a spirit of warmth, and for Lee to feel comfortable to talk about his work situation, and for the exchange of advice. I pray that I will show love and patience.

We would like for Isabel to take piano lessons. Lily, too. But we don't have the money for a piano (let alone the lessons) right now. I pray in my weakness, Lord, that you will make this happen, if it's your will. And if it's not, that's OK too!

I pray for Mom and Dad, that you would protect them and guard their health. I pray for Isabel and Lily, that you would go before them and stand behind them wherever they go. I pray for Lee, for strength and confidence as he seeks another job.

I thank you! Show me what you have for me next...

In Your son's name I pray,

Amen