Ian Simkins’ Journey with a Neurological Condition
In the latest episode of The Walk podcast, Ian Simkins, pastor of Bridge Church, takes listeners on a deeply personal and spiritual journey. His story, anchored in vulnerability and God’s grace, is a poignant reminder of how our weaknesses can be the very channels through which God’s power is revealed.
Childhood Challenges and Early Perceptions
From the outset, Ian shares his lifelong experience with a neurological condition that causes his eyes to shake uncontrollably—a condition that has brought both physical and emotional challenges. As a child, Ian initially perceived his condition as a superpower, only to later realize the painful social implications it carried. His transparency about the anger and frustration this caused him, even towards God, is both relatable and comforting for anyone who has ever questioned their own struggles.
A Transformative Encounter in India
A transformative moment in Ian’s life occurred during a mission trip to India. Here, in a heart-wrenching yet beautiful encounter, two little girls ran away from Ian in fear after seeing his eyes shake. However, they soon returned with a third girl whose eyes also shook. This girl, who had previously been isolated due to her condition, found an instant connection with Ian. This moment not only melted away years of Ian’s pain and anger but also brought healing and confidence to the young girl, who began to proudly declare, “My eyes are like Uncle Ian’s eyes.”
Theological Reflections on Weakness and God’s Power
Ian’s story is a powerful testament to how God can use our greatest weaknesses for His glory. Drawing on 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, where Paul speaks of boasting in his weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on him, Ian challenges the cultural obsession with strength and success. In contrast, he calls us to embrace our vulnerabilities as opportunities for God’s strength to shine through.
The Corinthian Context and Today’s Cultural Parallels
In Corinth, a society that revered visible success, Paul’s message of finding strength in weakness was revolutionary. Similarly, Ian’s message resonates in today’s world, where social media often pressures us to project an image of perfection. Yet, as Ian reflects, it is in our acknowledgment of true, deep-seated weaknesses that God’s power can be most profoundly experienced.
Embracing Weakness as an Opportunity for God’s Work
This episode concludes with a reminder that God’s love is not contingent on our performance. In Jesus, our weaknesses are not just conquered but redeemed, transforming our pain into a testimony of His saving grace. Ian’s story is an encouragement to all who feel burdened by their imperfections, offering hope that these very imperfections may be the vessels of God’s work in and through us.
A Call to Trust in God’s Strength
The devotional ends with a fitting musical piece, “Stacking Stones,” performed by Mitch Wong and Bridge Worship. This song beautifully encapsulates the theme of remembrance and faith in God’s enduring goodness, a perfect conclusion to Ian’s powerful message.
As listeners reflect on Ian’s words, they are invited to consider their own weaknesses not as obstacles but as opportunities for God to demonstrate His power. In a world that often glorifies strength, Ian’s testimony is a refreshing call to embrace the full spectrum of human experience—trusting that God is glorified not in spite of our weaknesses, but through them.
— — — — — —
New Music From Bridge Worship
— — — — — —
More About Planning Center
More Books on Worship Leadership
*Our website is supported by our users. We sometimes earn affiliate commissions when you click through the affiliate links on our website. Contact us with questions.
