“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”  2 Corinthians 12:9.

“Just be strong.” A well-meaning admonition often said to uplift and help someone facing difficult circumstances. While it comes with all sincerity, there are times when way down deep in the soul… you’re wondering if you can really handle it all. That’s when the Holy Spirit steps in and reminds us that our strength comes from the Lord! “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”  2 Corinthians 12:9.

The Apostle Paul penned these words of the Lord out of his own pain and weakness. He witnessed that he had a “thorn in the flesh.” While we don’t know exactly what this throne was-what we do know is that it was an ongoing struggle that was permitted by God to hinder the Apostle Paul from exalting himself.

The pain was real, and the Apostle sought relief from the Lord continuously…but the answer from the Lord was that His grace is sufficient! -meaning that God would provide all the grace that he needed to endure the circumstances…in fact God’s grace was more than enough- His power would be manifested even in the midst of Paul’s human weakness!

Are you there today my friend…are you experiencing circumstance that reach beyond your control… are you weak and tired, feeling as if your strength has run out… and as the apostle…you’re crying out for help from the Lord? Have faith in God! He knows, He cares and He is also working through your weakness to manifest His glory and power! “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

We can fully rely on God to provide all the strength and courage that we need to embrace our weaknesses; empowering us to overcome the trials and tribulations that we face in this life. “The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; he is their stronghold in the time of trouble,”Psalm 37:39.

Yes, trials and tribulations will surely come because we live in a fallen world, but as God’s beloved children, we can stand on His promises! “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6.

God knows exactly what He is doing – we just need to trust where He leads..our steps are lovingly laid out by the Lord…you just cling to God’s unchanging hands..He knows the way that you should go! “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10.

May God’s grace and power keep you in perfect peace!