Finding Strength in the Darkest Moments
A Personal Testimony of God’s Provision
When tragedy strikes, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and lost. But what if we could find a way to rise above our struggles and emerge stronger on the other side? For John Newton, the 18th-century pastor and hymn writer, this was more than just a theoretical question. He faced his greatest challenge when his beloved wife, Mary, passed away.
Newton had always been deeply devoted to Mary, and her loss was a crushing blow. Yet, even in the midst of his grief, he found the strength to preach a Sunday sermon, visit his church members, and officiate at her funeral. How did he manage to do so? The answer lies in his unwavering trust in God.
The All-Sufficient God
Newton later wrote, “The Bank of England is too poor to compensate for such a loss as mine. But the Lord, the all-sufficient God speaks, and it is done.” In essence, he was saying that no earthly wealth or power could ever replace what he had lost, but God’s provision was more than enough to see him through.
A Message of Hope
Today, we face our own share of struggles. Disease, calamity, and trouble seem to lurk around every corner. But here’s the good news: they don’t have the final say. Grace does. As the apostle Paul wrote, “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” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Boasting in Weakness
This passage may seem counterintuitive at first. Why would we want to boast about our weaknesses? Isn’t that a sign of vulnerability? But Paul is saying something radical here. He’s saying that our weaknesses are not liabilities, but opportunities for God’s power to shine through.
A Call to Courage
So, my friend, the next time you’re faced with a daunting challenge, remember Newton’s story. Remember Paul’s words. And above all, remember that God’s grace is sufficient for you. Don’t let your struggles define you. Instead, let them become a catalyst for growth, a reminder of God’s power, and a testament to His all-sufficient provision.
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