L06 – "But, My Weaknesses Make Me Vulnerable!"
In the lesson, "Weaknesses. Who Needs Them?", we looked at how our weaknesses allow God's strength to be manifested to it's maximum. ( 2Co_12:7-10 ). If we realize our weaknesses and our utter dependence upon God ( Joh_15:1-14 ), we look to Him and yield to and draw from His power as our source of strength and ability to accomplish all that we are given to do and be. ( Mar_10:17-27 )
However, our weaknesses also allow us to be vulnerable to the pressures and influences of sin.
The definition of the word...
Vulnerable, a.
1. That may be wounded; susceptible of wounds or external injuries; as a vulnerable body.
Achilles was vulnerable in his heel; and there will never be wanting a Paris to infix the dart.
2. Liable to injury; subject to be affected injuriously; as a vulnerable reputation.
...but when the Lord Jesus died in our place on the cross, He addressed the issue of our vulnerability in addition to the issue of our indebtedness to God. God knows that we are weak and He not only pardoned us for our sins, He broke the power of sin in our lives.
God didn't just provide forgiveness, He provided deliverance!
Paul addressed:
The fact of our deliverance in Romans Chapter 6. (Rom_6:1-23)
The fact of our vulnerability and susceptibility to sin in Chapter 7. (Rom_7:1-25)
The reality of our forgiveness and deliverance realized in Chapter 8. ( Rom_8:1-39 )
The details of which will be discussed in subsequent lessons.
So, yes, we are vulnerable, but, God knows that, and has made provision. See 1Co_10:1-14 .
Paul, Peter and James explain to us that we really need to be thankful to God for our weaknesses, vulnerability, and the testing of them knowing that it only provides a greater opportunity to see the hand of God in His power at work in our lives.
Paul - Rom_5:1-5
Peter - 1Pe_1:3-9 ; 1Pe_4:12-13
James - Jam_1:1-27
The Apostle John addressed the issue of our failing God in the midst of these tests and trials. He shows us what to do.
So, yes, we are still susceptible to sin and we do fail at times to follow God as we should, but "...we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous;... " ( 1Jo_2:1 )
We can boldly go to God at any time for help because Jesus made the way! ( Heb_4:1-16 )
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