2 Corinthians 12:7-10
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Do you take offense when someone speaks badly to you? How about when they insult you? No one likes to be criticized, do they? Apparently Paul had a different outlook toward insults. Paul thought it was a good thing. If you are not making a difference, no one notices you. It is only when you are on track and making a difference for God that you will fall under attack. Without the shield of God’s grace, you are vulnerable.
Paul spoke about his shortcomings and how he was being blessed by God’s grace in those shortcomings. He recognized that he had faults and it was God’s power and direction which led him to the places he needed to go to fulfill God’s plan. Are you being led by God? When you are in God’s power, you become strong beyond what you can imagine.
Do you work within God’s grace? When you are working in His grace, things go well. Many times, we try to do things in our own power and that doesn’t work out. When you are surrounded by the shield of God’s grace, you are protected, strengthened and guided. Everything you need is given to you. His grace is truly sufficient for all your needs.
Lord, Help us to live as one filled with, surrounded by and covered with Your grace! Let us work in Your power and not our own. By Your Spirit, guide us in Your ways today and every day. In Your name we pray! Amen!