You could become Weakened by Your Greatest Strengths. Not because they are innately harmful but because they might be a trigger. The space where the enemy can trip us up because we are human. Isn’t it ironic that the place we shine can be where we struggle with a lack of humility? It’s a constant reminder that all glory and honor go to God. Because of this, we see our humanness and need for a savior in the big picture.
Everyone has limitations
Let’s be honest with ourselves and recognize that everyone has limitations. You might be able to have sugar once, twice, three, etc., times a week, but not everyone can. Some people will probably want a lot if they have a little. Sometimes it’s a boundary issue, so they have to work on having a balance regarding sweets. The same goes with the way God has gifted each of us. It can be a trigger if we don’t walk in humility. As stated before, you could become Weakened by Your Greatest Strengths.
What are your triggers?
How about you? What are your triggers? Are they a person, place, or thing? Sometimes something that is a strength can cause us to stumble. Let’s look at one example, the gift of encouragement vs. gossip. God gives the beautiful gift of encouragement, but what if your mouth is an Achilles heel? It might be a place of attack from the enemy where God wants to bless you.
Achilles heel: noun-a portion, spot, area, or the like that is primarily or solely vulnerable.
Tested in the Wilderness
The Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness in Matthew 4. While He was there, Satan threw everything he had at Jesus to make Him stumble. But, Jesus was humble and recognized the limitations placed on Him as a man. Knowing that He is God was not His focal point. But that He was there to prepare for His journey to the Cross. He was grounded in the Word of God, which helped Him overcome temptation. So, we are encouraged to follow in His footsteps.
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ [b]” Matthew 4:4
Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’ [d]” Matthew 4:7
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’ [e]” Matthew 4:10
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Keep a mental checklist
Making a mental checklist of helpful hints is an encouraging way to keep out of trouble. Here are a few things to check going forward:
- Attitude
- Thoughts
- Accountability
- Stay close to God@
- Are your actions God-glorifying?
- Daily Bible study/reading
- Is prayer a strength in your walk with Christ?
Don’t be crushed by your Greatest Strengths.
Two assets can be a benefit. The first one is scripture, and the second is prayer. You will surely find them helpful to get you through the day for further encouragement!
Today’s Assurance
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Isaiah 40:29
Prayer
Father, I thank you for giving me gifts to glorify Your kingdom. I ask You, Lord, to help me when I struggle—being weakened by my greatest strengths. So, I recognize I can’t do life without you effectively. Please, wake me and prompt me to pray and read my Bible. Show me how to follow Your example so that I can walk in humility like You. Walk before me, Lord, so I can be guided by Your presence. In your mighty name, Jesus!
Declaration
God can strengthen the weak, but we need only be aware and pray for humility!
