When God...

Andy Stanley started a new sermon series called "When God..." last week.  Today he spoke on this very well-known verse "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."  Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Andy expressed how we want God to be made perfect NOT in our weaknesses but in our successes.  Many of us dream about giving credit to God when we receive that award or recognition, or run the bases, or reach the end zone.  When we are in the moment of glory, that's when we want to point to heaven/God and acknowledge His grace and power.  However, "God sometimes chooses to showcase His power on the stage of our weaknesses."(Andy Stanley)

Unfortunately or fortunately, that's my story or many of our stories.  For the years that Chris and I tried to get pregnant, I so desperately and longingly waited for THE day when we could showcase God's power by announcing our pregnancy.  And I would have given Him complete credit.  However, that day never came because He had something else in mind - He chose to use our weakness instead.

While listening to today's sermon, I was reminded of how God's grace has been made sufficient in our weakness in the last year.  About a year ago, I "revealed" my struggle to everyone I knew.  Although most people could have guessed my situation, I humbled myself and became transparent about our infertility.

Since I disclosed our struggle and shared about our adoption decision, I cannot believe all the encouragement I received in one year.  I've been overwhelmed by so many people sharing about their stories.  Some of my friends are adopted themselves.  Some have adopted their children.  Some struggled with infertility for many years before finally becoming pregnant.  I think for a long time I wanted to appear "invincible."  And it wasn't because I was so capable, but because I was simply a Christian.  I wanted the world to know that I was well put-together by the power of God.  However, by sharing my weakness, I truly believe that God was more glorified than in my strength.

I WISH I could say that there is a pretty bow to top off our baby journey, right now!  Regrettably, we are still waiting for our baby.  While waiting to receive our baby, however, I am determined for God to continue to showcase His power in our struggle and imperfect lives.  I will wait well on the Lord.  Even when God seems inattentive, uncooperative, and late, I choose to believe that  He NOT absent and that He is still GOD!