“The great theologian J. J. Packer wrote, ‘Weakness is the way.’ It’s the way for us to come to terms with our limits. It reminds us of what we can do and what we can’t do. The reality of weakness lets us off the hook of expectations of perfection. In a way, weakness is a prerequisite to God giving us help.”- Joel Muddamalle
“For while we were yet sinners, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.”- Romans 5:6 (ESV)
As Joel Muddamalle moves on in Chapter 4 of The Hidden Peace, he notes what it feels like when others constantly evaluate your personal worth. Certainly, others deeming you ‘not enough’ often sends you into a tailspin. Yet, another way exists. As J. J. Packer once wrote, “Weakness is the way.”
Most significantly, Joel notes, humanity’s position of vulnerability and weakness is often overlooked. Yet, as created beings we require the breath of life that comes from God alone. However, Adam and Eve viewed their first natural state as totally okay. Because, fully reliant on God, He met their every need and desire.
Also, Genesis 1 uses two Hebrew words, tselem (image) and demuth (likeness) in reference to the creation of humans. Words connected to royalty and divinity. And, in Mesopotamia and Egypt, those words described human royalty and their relationship to the divine.
So, Joel stresses, in this linguistic context, Genesis 1 presents Adam and Eve as the king and queen of creation. As children of Yahweh — the great King of all creation.
In conclusion, Joel underscores, Adam and Eve did nothing to deserve being called children of the King. God simply bestowed on them what they needed — and more. Joel explains:
“Prior to sin entering and corrupting the world, weakness was not something to be despised. It was beautiful evidence of dependence on God. Vulnerability was not something to fear. Dependence created intimacy, which was vital for enjoying the unique relationship between God and humans.”
Today’s question: How do you see weakness as a way to come to terms with your limits? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Living in communion with God”