My grace is sufficient

"But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." — 2 Corinthians 12:9

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In this second Epistle to the Corinthians, chapter 12:7, the apostle Paul tells us about a “thorn in the flesh,” a persistent struggle that caused him pain. The exact nature of this ''thorn'' is unsure although many have speculated about it for centuries. It could have been physical, emotional or spiritual. No one wants to live with persistent pain or struggle. Paul pleaded with the Lord to remove it, but God answered differently than Paul expected: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

This passage reminds us that God does not always remove our struggles and pains. However, He always provides the strength to endure them. We often want answers without waiting too long. Yet God uses pain and struggle to deepen our faith.

The apostle Paul had to continue on this missions. Learning that this ''thorn'' should not be a barrier or hinder him to serve the Lord. That is why he could say, “When I am weak, then I am strong.” True strength is reliance on our Lord Jesus Christ.

Each of us carry our own “thorn” in life:  a burden, disappointment, illness, fears and anxieties etc. Paul's example encourages us to continue on our daily walk. God’s grace is enough for every day, no matter how difficult it might be.

So today and every day, let us trust that His grace is sufficient and that His power is still at work in us. Amen.

Reflection on 2 Corinthians 12:1–10  by Hanne