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Job Motihba

Let the weak say:

“I AM STRONG”

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This book is dedicated to all nations of the earth, my family, friends who are downtrodden and my spiritual leaders in the body of Christ.

Make your plows into swords. Make spears from your hooks for trimming trees. Let the weak say, “I am strong.”
Joel 3:10

Foreword

I am strong..!

Preface

As much as I have grieved for the loss of my wife, ached, cried, and sat alone in silence, I have experienced a sweet, satisfying dependence on Christ that no words can sufficiently describe. While (me and my children) we have been blown away by the love that others have sacrificially shown us, ultimately it is Christ Himself who has sustained us, provided what we need, and carried us through this darkness. There is a strange sense of freedom that comes with knowing that God alone is big enough to save us.

Thus, the moment we realise that we were not created to take on life’s difficulties alone, we will then recognize the power of each weakness. What is so beautiful about being weak is how we allow ourselves to remove our walls. Our walls are that which contain what we do not want others to see; our flaws, sins, failures, lies, and personal struggles. Often when we allow this to happen, we find strengths we didn’t realize we had and faith stronger than we knew.

“Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!”(1 Chronicles 16:11).

So, if you have something kind, uplifting, or empowering to say, say it. Don’t be afraid of being judged. Most of us doesn’t live an authentic life for fear of judgement by others. You have to speak up when you have something to say. Don’t hide your thoughts and feelings, especially when your voice can make a difference.

Acknowledgement

Special appreciation and thanks to Cornerstone Christian Family Church and all the social media communities especially those on:

(facebook, twitter and whatsapp)

facebook: Job Mothiba

twitter: job@jobmothiba

jobmothiba@gmail.com

Whatsapp: +27732084668

www.cornerstonefamily.co.za

1
INTRODUCTION

Have you ever been asked in the interview about your weakness? You would find yourself in the situation that on one hand, you don’t want to mention your weakness thinking it will make you lose out on the job. On the other hand, you’re still expected to deliver an answer and you end up saying you don’t have any. Being asked about your weaknesses in an interview may be intimidating. After all, you’re there to show them how capable you are, not to talk about what you’re bad at.

Everyone who is born of flesh and blood has some weakness, but not everyone is aware of his or her weakness. Many of us believe we are weak only when we suffer defeat and sin. Far from it, that is not the reason. The reason is that we are not aware of our weaknesses, and so we are not crying out to God in our need before we fall. We do not present ourselves before the throne of grace to seek our great and compassionate High Priest. “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet he did not sin. (Hebrews 4:15).

He calls us in our weakness, even when He knows we will do it wrong. He puts His priceless treasure in (these earthen vessels of ours) our body because He delights in doing the impossible with nothing. His strength is perfected in our weakness. “We are like clay jars in which this treasure is stored. The real power comes from God and not from us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7)

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” (Hebrews 4:16)

1.1. DEFINING WEAKNESS

The Gospel writers often use the word “weakness” to describe many illnesses Jesus healed. If there were one broad explanation for weakness, it would be to lack. Weakness means we don’t have what it takes as humans. It means we are neither sovereign nor omniscient, nor invincible. We are not in control, we don’t know everything, and we can be stopped. We are limited and inadequate.

“There is one weakness in people for which there is no remedy

It is the universal weakness of lack of ambition”

– Napoleon Hill

But, with me one of my ambitions in life is to be a great teacher of the word, sharing my knowledge and experiences of Christ to the world. However, in my walk with God there are some moments when I do feel weak, when I do feel inadequate and in need of strength. “Have compassion on me, LORD, for I am weak…” (Psalm 6:2)

Becoming weak or vulnerable is something we can experience daily and some days it may even feel worse. This shows how much we need God in our weaknesses. “But the Lord can be trusted to make you strong and protect you from harm” (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

*Jesus Christ himself was considered weak by the Romans, because he went to the cross “like a lamb to the slaughter.” Likewise, as Christians we can be considered weak, because of God’s humility working in us, in fact we are also considered as sheep to be slaughtered (Romans 8:36)

1.1.1. The weak moments

These are moments which can affect everyone negatively, furthermore these are moments that needs one to speak or declare God’s words into and over his or her life to change the whole course for good, such as when you feel weak, sick, oppressed etc., speak: “Be strong in the Lord and power of His might”(Ephesians 6:10)

The word of God should be the first place we go to for diagnosis, direction, strength and comfort when these moments arises. For it is His words and spirit that defines how battles are to be fought. Hence, God is everything the word says He is. He will do everything the word says He will do. We are what the word says we are. If God says we are strong, we are. If He says we are healed, we are. So, “…by His stripes you are healed” (Isaiah 53:5)

*Elijah experienced this weak moment at one point, he was so discouraged that he desired to die: “And he asked that he might die, saying, ‘It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers’” (1 Kings 19:4). In response, the Lord sent an angel to bring the prophet food and drink both before and after he slept. After the rest and nourishment, Elijah took a forty-day journey to Mount Horeb to meet with the Lord (1 Kings 19:6–8).

Jesus said:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

(Matthew 11: 28)

*King David did have moments of weakness. The bible explains what He did when he and his companions were hungry, how he entered the house of God and they ate the sacred bread, which was against the law for him or his companions to eat, but only for the priests. (1 Samuel 21:4-6)

*Samson also had his moments of weakness, despite his supernatural strength given to him by God, he was acceded to his weakness and lust for pagan women by consciously visiting harlots and prostitutes- an act of blasphemy and blatant profanation of his honour as a Nazarite and Israelites, for non-Israelite were forbidden fruit.

The Book of Romans (Romans 5:8) also tells us that *Jesus died for us while we were still weak, that is, while we were ungodly and lacked any possibility of deserving the slightest good.

However, many Christians say and believe that we are strongest when we are on our knees in prayer. This seems totally erroneous and contradictory to unbelievers, and yet when we turn things over to God in prayer our lives are strengthened and refreshed.

Just as Samson prayed, because he was very thirsty, he cried out to the LORD… (Judges 15:18). Again, he called out to the Lord in (Judges 16:28) saying: “...‘O Lord GOD, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time…”

His prayer for the return of his strength is answered and he destroyed Israel’s enemies. At the same time he became martyred and honoured in his death.

In the end the God of Israel destroyed His enemies and Samson was redeemed to his faith while he died praying.

1.1.2. Weakness in Prayer

Sometimes we are getting weak when we pray, we lack the words or know-how. “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” (Romans 8:26)

I might not be able to fully understand or describe how the Spirit strengthens us in our weakness because it is beyond what my limited mind can comprehend. However, I know that I have experienced it. Just as we can’t see the wind with our eyes, yet see evidence of its presence, we can’t see or always feel the strength of Christ flowing through us, yet see evidence of his power.

We have grown in a society that says, “If you need people, it’s a sign of weakness”, when God calls us to confess to one another… (James 5:16). You can’t just do it by yourself, “everybody” needs “somebody”, don’t suffer in silence, but talk to somebody. Don’t keep your pain all to yourself, you will feel a lot better when you have someone to share it with, someone you can trust.

Above all, you need to pray and speak God’s inspired words through the Holy Spirit into your life and build yourself up in God. For the bible says “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.” (Isaiah 40: 29). This power is not just for preachers, evangelists, or people who work in special ministry; rather, it is available to every believer who willingly surrenders in submission and obedience to the Holy Spirit.

Jesus was actually filled with the power of God when he submitted his will to that of the Father, and that is the same for us. When Jesus lives in us, we can live by the power of God. “For he was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but in dealing with you we will live with him by the power of God.”(2 Corinthians 13:4)

1.1.3. Weakness in communities (widows, orphans and the poor)

With this in mind, there is more we can do to address this weaknesses in our communities. As Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 5:14) that they must warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak and be patient with everyone. We can also help in our communities (the weak, the widows, and the orphans) but even in that, it must be with love, patience and never forget we depend on God in our weakness. For when we are weak, then we are strong.

“For I assisted the poor in their need and the orphans who required help. I helped those without hope, and they blessed me. And I caused the widows’ hearts to sing for joy” (Job 29:12-13)

Even with the Israelite community, it was understood that care and protections be given towards those on the margins of their society. In the Old Testament God gives various commands about how to live in community with one another. These are not commands to be acted upon haphazardly when we are convicted or feel passion, but rather it outlines the plans for a just and merciful community where all may flourish.

These Old Testament commands include insights into equality of opportunity (the year of Jubilee) and opportunities for the poor to provide for themselves (gleaning). “When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and the alien. I am the LORD your God.” (Leviticus 23:22)

“Happy are those who pay close attention to the poor, The LORD rescues them during troubling times.” (Psalm 41:1)

1.1.4. Weakness in faith

And, when addressing the issues of weakness, Apostle Paul specifically identified two areas of concern: food and holy days. For instance, one person believes it’s all right to eat anything. But another believer whose faith is weak (with a sensitive conscience) will eat only vegetables. Similarly, some are very concerned about observing special holy days, while others consider each day alike. (Romans 14:2- 5).

Those who consider issues like this very important, with regard to the Kingdom are regarded as weak “whose faith is weak” (Romans 14:1) while those who does not are strong. He further address the issue as follows. “But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do. (1 Corinthians 8:8)

So, the food and observance of holy days have nothing at all to do with salvation. We are no better off for partaking or abstaining, because these things are of no significance to the kingdom of God.

Instead, those who feel free to eat anything must not look down on those who don’t. And those who don’t eat certain foods must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them. “Because God is the Creator of all things, nothing is unclean in and of itself…” (Romans 14:14)

“Accept other believers who are weak in faith, and don’t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong. (Romans 14:1)

Prophet Micah proclaims: “No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

So, part of our walk with the Lord is our dedication to “stop doing wrong and learn to do what is right,” which Prophet Isaiah confirms: “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless…” (Isaiah 1:17 NIV)

“Don’t let the downtrodden be humiliated again. Instead, let the poor and needy praise your name.”(Psalm 74:21)

1.1.5. Weakness of the strong

It is for this reason that Apostle Paul identifies with the strong and that they must be careful, that the exercise of their rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak. For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols? So this weak brother or sister, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. (1 Corinthians 8: 9-11)

“Once more the humble will rejoice in the LORD; the needy will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.“(Isaiah 29:19)

1.1.6. Weakness of the pride

Don’t enter into helping or serving another because of obligation or expectation. We must be careful to remain humble when walking alongside those who suffer. For it is so easy to slip into the trap of thinking more highly of yourself than you should when you are surrounded by another’s shortcomings. “Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!” (Romans 12:16).

When you are in the midst of these feelings, go to God in prayer now and allow Him to transform your heart.

Lord, thank you that your grace is enough to cover my weaknesses. I pray that your power would rest on me, strengthening me in my weaknesses, transform my heart and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen

—–

*Jesus Christ- Christ comes from Christos, a Greek word that means “the anointed one,” or “the chosen one.” Bible often refers to Jesus by name as “Jesus Christ,” just as we do in modern usage (see Matthew 1:1, 18; Mark 1:1; John 1:17; 17:3; Acts 3:6; Romans 3:24, etc.). When Jesus asked His disciples who they thought He was, Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16).

*Elijah-Elijah’s name means “Yahweh is my God” and is spelled Elias in some versions of the Bible. The story of his prophetic career in the northern kingdom of Israel during the reigns of Kings Ahab and Ahaziah is told in 1 Kings 17–19 and 2 Kings 1–2 in the Old Testament.

*Samson- a member of the tribe of Dan, was one of the Judges of Israel. He Judged Israel for 20 years.

2
BATTLES, CHALLENGES AND STRUGGLES OF LIFE

Beloved, have you realised that when the only tool you own is a hammer, every problem begins to resemble a nail. It is even harder to go out there and get into action when you never sat down long enough to plan. So, do not go out charging into the battle without a plan. Above all if you get a Godly advice or counsel you will surely succeed. For plans are established by seeking advice; so “if you wage war, obtain guidance.” (Proverbs 20:18)

When you are in war, if you are not attacking you will be attacked by the enemy. When the enemy wants to devour you that is when you need to get more determined. Keep your faith in God, and look unto Him; because if you cannot take it then you would not make it. We usually have a remarkable ability to keep fighting, as long as we do not lose sight of what we are fighting for. “Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle;” (Psalm 144:1)

There comes a point in time where you stop feeling sorry for yourself and get up and do something about your situation. Tell that mountain to move. If you avoid the battle you were born for, you often end up facing battles not meant for you. You are never too small or old to move mountains, you are never too lost to be found.

You are never too sick to be healed, when faith in your life is abound everything possible. Being scared would not help, but being prepared does. Face your fear and prepare yourself for whatever task ahead. Much happens when you focus on the greatness of God rather than the problem in front of you. “For the LORD your God is the One who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” (Deuteronomy 20:4)

It also depends on who are you turning to when troubles come. For it is not always God’s will to remove our troubles but, to teach us how to turn to Him instead of others. Thus, if your walk with Him was easy or without any challenges then how you would get stronger. So, God is not going to move every mountain… there are times when you will need to put your faith to work and start climbing.

God is not always going to put everything in your hands. Sometimes, He will put it three steps away to see if you are willing to go get it.

He does not always just give you things, sometimes He makes you notice things, change your state of mind and overall gives you the opportunity. He want you to grow through everything that you go through. There may be complexities and difficulties that may exist in life but you have been created, or made for them. When life struggles make us weary or weak we can find rest in God alone. Just believe…”The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.” (Proverbs 16:4)

He has placed provision, not where you stand, but in the place you are about to tread. He is working it out. You can only see part of the big picture, but God sees the whole picture, and He knows how to complete it. Do not worry, just breathe. If it is meant to be, it will find its way

I declare that “Every place on which the soles of your feet shall tread shall be yours.” (Deuteronomy 11:24)

Sometimes you just have to choose your battles wisely. No one changes the world by turning their attention to every “big” problem they encounter. Do not be distracted by focusing on bad experiences and missing out on peace, joy and love. Do not get your feelings hurt so easily. One who is easily offended stirs up much trouble for their life. Be bigger than that and forgive those who hurt you. God has a greater good in His plans for you. “Doing what is right and fair pleases the Lord…” (Proverbs 21:3)

If you see life as a battle, then a battle is what you will get, the struggle ends when you let go to seek peace instead. Sometimes you have to give up the fight and walk away, and move on to something that is more productive. Reach your full potential and maximise your life, by chasing after *The Giver of every good and perfect gift. (James 1:17)

We are so sensitive about meaningless things that do not even concern us. Seek the peace of God that surpasses all human understanding and pursue it. People that do not value peace will always seek to disrupt yours. Do not let your peace, joy and hope walk away simply because they did. Know when to shut up and stop trying to prove a point even if you are right.

People who need to prove their point usually do not have one. They are always out to prove something to other people. You do not have to worry about impressing others. Prove things only to yourself. At times when all seems wrong, and makes no sense, feelings will tell you to prove your point but, faith will tell you to protect your peace. In chaos, stay focused- remember the big picture. God loves you. You do not have to react or respond to everything. Practice the art of observation.

Just watch and pray. You will learn so much. Self-control is a strength and an action that must be practiced daily.

If you keep finding yourself in the same battle, it is time to do something different. Taste your words before you spit them out. What you say to others in anger or sarcastically, may bite you back later. No one has ever made himself great by showing how small someone else is. Remember, words only hurt when you allow yourself to believe them. “The more words you speak, then less they mean. So what good are they?” (Ecclesiastes 6:11)

There are some things you would not understand until later but, you have to live now to get to later. Even though life may seem like it is in perpetual winter, yet season pass and rejuvenation takes growth in the sorrows of yesterday. You cannot live out your life in the sand, just because you started in the sand. Your struggle is not your identity, how you deal with it is. Do not look at things the way they are, believe God for how they could be. You may not understand today or tomorrow, but eventually God will reveal why you went through everything you did. Delay does not necessarily mean denial.

Though we identify the immediate cause of our delays, like a traffic light or the long checkout line but, the Lord is in control. Keep your hopes high, but do not let them become a substitute for your efforts. Most of us have far more courage than we ever dreamed we possessed. Character is always revealed when we are under pressure. “Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times.” (Romans 12:12)

Sometimes you may face difficulties in life, not because you are doing something wrong but, because you are doing something right. Job was not tested because he did anything wrong. He was tested because he lived a life of righteousness before God. Although this may be a hard pill to swallow for some, the reason you are being attacked is due to your decision to obey God. As tough as things got, God never allowed the enemy to have the victory over Job.

And, He will not allow the enemy to be victorious in your situation either. For the Bible says “If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully keep all his commands…, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the world” (Deuteronomy 28:1).

By the way, have you ever had a door of opportunity slam in your face? A job application…that you did not get; a loan…that was turned down; a friendship or relationship…that ended; a proposal…where the answer was no. Well, when all these happen, do not be afraid to get back up and try again, love again, live again, and dream again. Do not let a hard lesson harden your heart. Life’s best lessons are often learned at the worst times and from the worst situations. Yes, there will be times when it seems like everything is going wrong and you might feel like you will be stuck in this rut forever, but you would not.

When you feel like quitting, remember sometimes things have to go wrong before they can be right. Sometimes you have to go through the worst, to arrive at your best. Yes, life is tough, but you must be tougher. Do not stress over things you cannot change. “And let the peace of God rule in your heart…” (Colossians 3:15)

At some point in life the load just seems too heavy to bear anymore. But, thankfully that is when Jesus steps in. As you just had a door of opportunity slammed in your face. A job that you did not get, a loan application that was turned down; a friendship or relationship that has just ended, and all these has made you hate endings, goodbyes and changes.

But, the endings you are going through right now bring about the beginnings you have been waiting for. No matter how great the anxiety of starting over becomes, the joy of finally getting it right will supersede the frustration of the moment. One of the best feelings is finally being able to say “I am over it.” For promotion comes neither from east nor from west nor from the south. But, God is the judge. May, “the Lord raise up the standard for you when the enemy comes in like floods.” (Isaiah 59:19)

Wherever you are, whatever struggle that you are walking through, know you are not alone, and there is grace, every step along the way. The beginnings are usually scary but, endings are usually better. Do not look back and wonder why things went wrong. It happened for a reason. Your better days are ahead of you. Do not regret for not doing more. It is not the strength of the body that counts, but the strength of the spirit. Do not be stressed as you endure your test. God is yet on the throne and He is working it out for your good. “Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life” (James 1:12)

If you cannot see clearly while the mist of confusion surrounds, let it settle, then decide your plan of action.

“May your soul wait quietly upon God, for your hope is from him alone.”(Psalm 62:5)

When you lack or have nothing, it seem okay to want things other people have; it is quite natural that we should want good things for ourselves. But, the bible says “do not covert”, meaning to desire (someone or something) obsessively, wrongfully, and/or without due regard for the rights/feelings of others. It is a strong emotion, to be avoided. So, we should not fool ourselves into thinking that other people have picture-perfect lives.

Everyone struggles, everyone hurts, and everyone is enduring something that they probably would not tell you about. Whatever picture people paint their life as, rest assured that any one’s life in all its parts is beautiful and ugly, hopeful and weary, a blessing and an everyday battle.

Focus on the good parts of your life and do not be ashamed for your own set of problems because if you knew what everyone else was going through, you would probably still choose your own life and stop comparing yourself to anyone.

And; while we are at it, let us be a little kinder to each other along the way. Understanding that people do not have to be nice to you, give their time to you. They do not have to believe in you. So, once somebody does, take it, cherish it, reciprocate it. In a nutshell be your brother’s or sister’s keeper.

Beloved, do not hesitate to come to your Heavenly Father. God, who is full of goodness and supply, is always willing to bless and heal you. So, never underestimate what God can do for you even this day. “…you shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.” (Matthew 19:29)

For as I mentioned earlier, everyone struggles but, not everyone knows God. Do not be ashamed to ask for directions, God is waiting on your humble spirit so He can take you higher. God does not just point the way. He leads the way. His love is beyond what words can describe. He got His children in the palm of his hand. You are not alone, lean on the One who leads you. As the book of (Isaiah 58:11) said “The LORD will always lead you, satisfy you in a parched land, and strengthen your bones. You will be like a watered garden and like a spring whose waters never run dry.”

“…There is nothing to fear here. I know you are looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross…” (Matthew 28:5)

Sometimes it is hard to move forward in life when you do not have anything to look forward to. Ask yourself what your life would look like if you direct it instead of drifting through it. When you have your life pleases God, everything else will fall into place. He is the One who goes before you and make the crooked way straight. Rest in that assurance knowing that He is ahead of you on your journey. Nobody can determine your end, because God is in full control of your life. In fact how your life turns out depends on who you agree with. God or the devil.