Some Christians believe that sickness and disease come to enforce humility. I am not one of those. If sickness and disease were of any value, Jesus would not die to take them away.
Second Corinthians 12:10 is a powerful verse in the Bible, but I doubt that it is a prayer from Paul to God to send him more afflictions, sicknesses and persecutions …..
“So I am well pleased with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, and with difficulties, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak [in human strength], then I am strong [truly able, truly powerful, truly drawing from God’s strength].”
2 Corinthians 12:10 AMP
This scripture would seem to also suggest that weakness is a good thing. How is that?
Features characterizing a weak State
A sick, afflicted or distressed person can be desperate, anxious, hopeless or he/she can be calm, motivated, trustful, hopeful, focused, attentive, and lowly. It is easier to express the latter features if there is a probable or confirmed solution to the problem, or where there is expectation for a divine intervention. The state of hopelessness, anxiety, desperation is not a pleasant one, and is certainly not the strong state Apostle Paul speaks of in 2 Corinthians 12:10.
God doesn’t want us sick and physically weak. He wants us to prosper, to be in good health, and for our souls to prospers. A weak state is only beautiful as long as we become more focused on God, committed to fellowship and prayer, humble, teachable, calm, attentive, trusting and dependent on God. These are attributes we can desire, imbibe and express when we walk closely with the Holy Spirit.
When we submit totally to the Spirit, letting go of self, letting the Spirit reign supreme. It is in these times that we can hear God clearly, gain knowledge, wisdom and understanding, and so be the confident to do the right thing at the right time.
When ‘I am weak’ is when my flesh is made weak, and the Spirit rules. This is when I am strong.
Struggling with your academics? Weaken the flesh, strengthen the Spirit.
Problem in your marriage and relationships? Weaken the flesh, strengthen the Spirit.
At crossroads and not sure which way to turn? Weaken the flesh, strengthen the Spirit.
Business not moving as expected? Maybe you should stop doing it your way, try God’s way.
Stay connected to God. Spend time in the Word.
“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh conveys no benefit [it is of no account]. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and life [providing eternal life].” John 6:63. AMP