2 Corinthians 12:10   New English Translation

10 Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, with insults, with troubles, with persecutions and difficulties for the sake of Christ, for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.

 

When I am weak

 

Is it not choosing weakness through the power of the will?

But rather disbelieving in one's ability and strength

A distrust in one's talents seems like a good start

To keep from self-exultation and pride to any length

 

A joint ill among Christians is falling into this trap

That self starts ruling partially and then slowly takes over

Putting aside the Holy Spirit and imprisoning the heart

No peace in that at all. It's like depending on a four-leaf clover.

 

Indeed, the desires cannot be guided by a self-denying heart 

Certainly, all the latter earns is a temporal admiration of men

Until our bodies are enslaved to collapse in self-confrontation

Because God's life refuses to be overwhelmed by the will of man

 

The work not ordered by God will never receive His Strength

The enemy won't remind me, however, that living such is risky

To belong to God absolutely will secure the Power of His Hand

Nothing then will befall me, for the awareness of God is with me

 

Nothing will befall me without His Knowledge and permission

Whatever an attack may come is just another indication

His particular purpose and His unfailing protection

As I travel through the days to my final destination

 

Jan Wienen