Embracing Weakness: A Path to Happiness

By: Molly Kreikemeier

“Hence, I will boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell within me. For this reason, I rejoice when I endure weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and distress for the sake of Christ. For it is when I am weak that I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12: 9-10).

Happiness can sometimes feel like an abstract concept. Often, we find ourselves gravitating towards a mindset that waits to be happy. This constant feeling of never being good enough can stray us from the path of true happiness. I sometimes even find myself saying, “I will be happy when I get my grades up.” I was talking to someone once, and she told me she felt she had to wait until she stopped sinning to go to mass. Waiting for happiness can prolong the miserable sentiments and essential dread that rings through your life. It becomes hard to be happy when there is always a hardship or a struggle blocking the path.

In the context of Corinthians, Paul felt like he was not a true apostle because the super-apostles claimed he was not that spiritual and didn’t have hyper-spiritual experiences. Paul talks to God, and God says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12: 9). Through Corinthians, we learn that God doesn’t want us to wait to be happy but rather we should rejoice when we are challenged. This is because it is through our weaknesses and struggles that the power of God makes us strong.

A simple way to find happiness in our lives when we are struggling is through gratitude. Practicing gratitude can help deepen our understanding and help us see how God works in mysterious ways. For instance, if you feel like you are struggling in school, pray to God and thank Him for the opportunity to learn and grow through education. Each day, try to tell God five things you are grateful for. This practice can shift your focus from what you lack to the blessings you have, helping you to see the strength in your weaknesses and the joy in your challenges. Gratitude can transform our mindset, allowing us to rejoice in our hardships and recognize glimpses of God in our everyday lives. 

Sources: “Epistle: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 (Pentecost 6: Series B).” 1517.org, 2014, www.1517.org/articles/epistle-2-corinthians-121-10-pentecost-6-series-b. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.