When Weakness Becomes Glory
As a candle shines through clean glass, so the life of Jesus radiates through us when we yield to Him.
Devotional Credit: Days of Heaven on Earth by A.B. Simpson
Photo Credit: Unsplash
A.B. Simpson reminds us that the truest way to glorify God is not by showcasing our own strength, but by letting His life shine through us. Just as sunlight finds expression through a clear window or reflects from a spotless mirror, so the life of Jesus radiates when we yield to Him. His glory is not something we generate, but something He reveals through vessels that are available and trusting.
Nothing delights the Father more than when frail and limited people become channels of His victory. When His strength enables us to endure trials, to respond with grace in hardship, or to love when love seems impossible, His character is put on display. Weakness ceases to be a liability and instead becomes the very place where His sufficiency is magnified.
Simpson points us to the reality that this fruit-bearing is what proves us to be disciples. It is not in words alone, nor in the perfection of our efforts, but in the transforming effect of His indwelling grace. Where our wisdom ends, His wisdom directs. Where our ability falls short, His Spirit accomplishes what is far beyond our reach.
The call today is simple yet powerful: to live as a window, a mirror, a vessel through which God shows Himself. In our labor, in our suffering, in our limitations, His power shines. Our part is not to strive but to yield, trusting that His life within us will reflect the Father’s glory in ways greater than we could plan or imagine.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
My child, you glorify Me not by striving to be strong, but by trusting that My power is perfected in your weakness. When you abide in Jesus, you are already bearing fruit that reflects My glory. The fruit is not manufactured, it is the natural outflow of His life in you.
When trials come, do not look to your own sufficiency. Rest in Mine. When your wisdom is not enough, lean into Mine. When you feel small, remember that you are chosen to display the greatness of My grace. I shine brightest when you step aside and allow My Spirit to work through you.
Do not fear your limitations, for they are the canvas upon which My strength is painted. As you yield, I adorn your life with gentleness, patience, love, and endurance. This is the glory that points others to Me, not the brilliance of your effort, but the radiance of My Son living His life in you.
Scripture References: John 15:8, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Philippians 2:13, Galatians 2:20, Ephesians 3:16-19, Colossians 1:27-29, Romans 6:4, Philippians 1:11, Matthew 5:16, 2 Corinthians 3:18.
Real-Life Analogy
Think of a glass jar holding a candle. If the jar is clouded with dirt, the flame’s glow is dim. But when the jar is cleaned, the light shines clearly, illuminating the space around it. The jar does not create the flame, it simply allows it to be seen. In the same way, our lives are not the source of divine light. Jesus is the flame. We are the jar, vessels through which His life shines when we yield to Him.
Today, when I face a challenge, I can whisper, “Lord, I trust You to let Your life shine through me in this moment.” That quiet yielding turns my limitation into a lantern of His glory.
Prayer of Confidence
Lord, I thank You that my life is a vessel for Your glory. I rejoice that Your strength is revealed in my weakness, Your wisdom directs me when mine runs out, and Your love flows where mine cannot reach. I rest in the truth that You live in me, bearing fruit that glorifies the Father. May every moment today reflect not my effort but Your life shining through.