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 about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV
It’s probably fair to say we all have weaknesses in our lives. It may be sickness, addiction, or anything that is a continuous source of annoyance. We may sometimes feel progress, but then it rears its head again.
Paul certainly knew this feeling. He suffered from some unnamed condition he refers to as a "thorn in his flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me." (12:7). He pleads for God to relieve him of this three times, but God responds, "My grace is sufficient for you."
Whatever our thorns, God's grace exceeds that thing. His love, compassion, and forgiveness are far greater than our suffering. So while we may find it difficult to boast of these weaknesses, we recognize God's grace is sufficient–it is all we need. That thorn may remain an irritating reminder but filled with the Holy Spirit, that perceived weakness can become a strength.
God, we come before you today confessing we don't like the thorns. They are uncomfortable reminders of our weaknesses. Father, help us to remember that your grace is sufficient. Your Son laid down his life so that we may overcome our struggles. In the Holy Spirit, you give us strength over weakness. Help us to look beyond those things we see as limitations to the freedom found in your grace. In our thorns, may we recognize your love. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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