But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV
No surprise to anyone reading this that we notice a decline in some of our body parts at a certain age, things begin wearing out! Our joints start to ache, we have ringing in our ears, and our eyesight gets hazy. We develop weaknesses in our previously healthy and whole bodies. We know this is just a normal part of aging.
We do not know what weaknesses Paul had, but in experiencing our ailments, we can empathize with him. Three times Paul prayed for healing. God's response is the verse today, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." While Paul most certainly would have liked to been healed, he accepted that God had a higher purpose that included his weakness. As we read Paul's letters, the stories of his ministry, and hardships, there can be no doubt that God's power was with him.
Now, I am not proposing that we are all Paul's in the making because we have weaknesses. But what we know with 100 percent certainty is that God's grace is still sufficient for us. In the acceptance of His grace, how will we allow God to use us? Will we, like Paul, boast amid our aches, pains, and sicknesses of God's goodness? Is there someone waiting, watching, and listening for us to witness in our weakness?
God, we give you thanks for the sufficiency of your grace. Please help us to accept that grace and become empowered with your Spirit. Use our weaknesses to the furtherment of your kingdom here on earth. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
