God's Grace is Sufficient

By: Bob Beck

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

...in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

Paul describes an unknown struggle (a trial) he was in. He goes on to say he believed God allowed it to keep him from becoming prideful. Paul prayed and pleaded to God with great expectation, but as far as we know, God never removed whatever it was. Paul's trials helped him learn to completely rely on God. Even the apostle Paul needed a reminder to trust God now and then... do we? It’s easy to become complacent in our Christianity, thinking we can handle life's challenges. We might pray, but have we learned to be fully dependent on God like Paul was?

Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 2 Corinthians 1:9

The best opportunity to see God work is when we are weak and fully dependent on Him. When we've reached our human limits, it's easier to rely on God. At times, controlling everything in our lives is difficult, maybe even impossible. Those are the moments to pursue God intently! Compared to Goliath, David was a picture of weakness. When everyone else doubted, David trusted God!

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29

Most people tend to hide their weaknesses and advertise their strengths. When we aren't dependent on God, we may even try to convince others our weakness is a strength. But if we're honest, we're probably just trying to make ourselves look better. For example, in a small group fellowship, if we never admit we are weak (or have needs), how will anyone pray for us? On the other hand, when we're open, honest, and vulnerable, people will be glad to pray for us!

We can't be afraid to admit our weaknesses! God will use them to work in us and through us.