Admit: “to concede as true or valid”  Perhaps the definition of admit in the Merriam-Webster student dictionary provides a more thorough explanation: “to make known, usually with some unwillingness”.

There are many things about myself that I would prefer to not admit. Weaknesses, insecurity, failures, sin. Yet, my unwillingness to admit something that is true about myself does not change the truth.

The verb admit has another definition: “to give entrance or access”. We have choice over what we admit into our lives, what we allow to enter our lives. True, many circumstances enter our lives over which we have no control. But as we discussed yesterday, we can choose to invite God’s presence into our lives. We can choose to admit Jesus into every area of our hearts, every aspect of our lives, every moment of our days.

These two definitions work hand-in-hand in our relationship with Jesus. When we admit our weakness, we can admit His power. When we concede the truth of our shortcomings, we give Him access into our lives. When we acknowledge our wrong-doing, we can invite Him to enter our lives and change us.

“And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”

II Corinthians 12:9 (NASB)

Paul declared that he was content with his weaknesses and difficulties (II Corinthians 12:10) But he went even further than contentment. Boldly, he declared that we would boast in his weakness.

Lack of follow through. Unkind words to those I love. Sickness. Insecurity and pride, strangely intertwined. Hormones. Lack of wisdom in parenting. Fear of needles. Desire to get my own way.

Yep, I’ll admit those. Over time, I am finding that Scripture really is true in the reality of my daily life. As I admit the truth about who I am, I see miraculous, supernatural power at work in my heart. As I admit my need, I realize how much I need His power.

But I know I’m not the only one who struggles.

Do you have some weakness where you would like to see Jesus’ power at work?

Power is perfected in weakness. Our weakness gives us access to the power of Jesus Christ, the power of the God of the universe. So perhaps our weakness isn’t such a bad thing.

Today’s Challenge:

Admit your weakness.

Admit Jesus’ power.

Admit your weakness.

What area of sin, weakness, failure, or insecurity do you feel resistant to admit? Acknowledge the truth about your weakness. Don’t fear being specific. His love and grace are perfect.

Admit Jesus’ power.

First, acknowledge that He has power over all things. Then, invite Jesus in to give you His power in that area of weakness.