The Power of Vulnerability
It might seem natural to equate spiritual health with an absence of weakness and vulnerability. Maybe it’s exactly the opposite. Sometimes power and strength are found where we least expect them. Could it be that running from weakness is actually a weakness? We become spiritually healthy when we see the value of humility, weakness, and vulnerability—all-powerful responses when combined with trust in God. When it comes to strength, God’s ways can seem upside down.
Discussion Questions
2 Corinthians 12:7-10 is one of the most remarkable passages in the New Testament. What is Paul’s view of weakness in his life? How is this perspective upside-down from how many people view strength and power?
What is vulnerability? How might vulnerability be a good trait? What is the relationship between shame and joy and vulnerability?
Peter Scazzero says, “It is not possible to be spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature.” What does that mean and how might that apply to your life?
Read Psalm 9:1 and 103:1. Why is it important not to hold back from God what’s inside of you? How is Psalm 77:3 at the statement of vulnerability to God?
What guidelines would you suggest for being vulnerable with other people? What are the dangers and benefits of vulnerability?
Further Reading
A Beautiful Thing
As Jesus prepared for the cross, an unnamed woman responded to Jesus with faith in a unique way. She understood truth about Jesus that eluded other disciples and gave Jesus an extravagant gift. Let’s remember how her example teaches us to follow the Lord with faith...
Stay Awake
Throughout His time on earth, Jesus' disciples asked Him many of the same questions that we find ourselves wrestling with today. Instead of giving a direct and clear response to their questions, Jesus focused more on the heart and attitude of His followers. We have...
Death and Taxes
Death and taxes are two of life’s certainties, and Jesus responded to questions about those topics to redirect our attention to timeless truth. Remembering the source and owner of all the parts of our life, as well as life itself, radically changes our perspectives....
Divine Authority
While Jesus entered conflict with religious leaders over his authority, he also revealed significant truth about his mission, God’s good gifts, and our responsibilities. What can Jesus’ teaching, storytelling, and confrontation with religious authorities teach us...
Foreshadowing
Jesus approaches Jerusalem with a loud celebration, but when he enters the Temple courts no one seems to notice. His strong actions both privately and publicly demand attention and response. Jesus’ triumphal parade into Jerusalem, a withered fig tree, and Jesus’...