Welcome to The Turnaround’s 52 Days of Prayer!

Introduction

The world might be surprised by the people Jesus chooses to change the world. Fishermen, tax collectors, and even those with questionable pasts, from small, insignificant towns in the vast Roman Empire. Even Jesus Himself, though fully God, chose the path of meekness. He showed us that strength can be found in weakness. Could it be that weakness is the very means through which Jesus transforms the world?

Insight

The idols of today are just as tempting as those from the past. They entice us with promises of power, prestige, and success, telling us, “You can do this.” This mirrors the temptation of the forbidden fruit, the desire to “be something.” Messages of greatness, winning, and war fill our newsfeeds, and fear pushes us to avoid weakness.

But this isn’t the way of the believer. Jesus brought accessibility where meeting with God in the temple was inaccessible.  He washed feet and he hung out with the vulnerable. Jesus restrained His manifest glory—glory that will one day cause every knee to bow and every tongue to confess. He showed us that weakness isn’t just a part of the journey; it’s the way to salvation. He reminds us, “Apart from me, you can do nothing.” Without Him, we are lost.

After we embrace salvation, there’s a temptation to rely on our own strength in faith. Though we know the truth, we quickly fall into the trap of trying to earn our worth. Yet, the message remains: “Apart from me, you can do nothing.”. Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:8 that everything is “rubbish compared to knowing Christ,” and in 2 Corinthians 11:30, he says, “If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.”

Maybe our weakness is the only message worth sharing. My dear friend Ariel Moore shared how, as a new believer, Christians seemed to her like “shiny people.” She could tell there was something different about them, but it also felt inaccessible. Recently, she said, “You guys should talk more about your weaknesses.” Maybe in the simple phrase from the children’s song “Jesus Loves Me”—“they are weak, but He is strong”—we find the best description of the Christian life.

Turnaround Question

What challenges do you face in embracing weakness, vulnerability, insignificance, or loneliness? Is there a secret sin that, if confessed to a trusted friend or mentor, could lead to healing and deeper faith in Jesus? Is pride hindering the work of Jesus in your life or through others? 

Prayer

Jesus, help me embrace the truth that apart from You, I can do nothing. Everything I have to offer comes from You and is for Your glory. Forgive me for not giving You the praise You deserve and for being ungrateful for Your blessings. Teach me not to fear my weakness but to find strength in You. As we wait for the day You will make all things right, help me trust You even when things don’t seem right. I affirm my dependence on You, Lord. Here I am—Your servant is listening