May 25

YOU CAN TRUST GOD’S STRENGTH IN YOUR WEAKNESS

2 Corinthians 12:9

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.

Paul was suffering. He had some kind of debilitation or chronic illness that he felt was hindering his effectiveness in ministry. He figured he could be more effective, share the Good News with more energy and travel more places if God would take away the problem.

Makes sense, right?

So Paul pleaded with God: “For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.” (2 Corinthians 12:8). But each time God’s answer was no. In fact, God said that his power worked best through Paul’s weakness. God’s grace was enough to make Paul’s ministry effective.

We don’t like to hear that the answer is no. We prefer the promises of healing—and God can indeed heal; nothing is impossible with God. But sometimes, for reasons unknown to us, God chooses to say no. He only says, “I can do more with you this way.” And then, we simply have to trust.

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME:

• My gracious favor is all you need.

• I can use your weaknesses for my glory.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

You promise, Lord, that your power works best in my weakness. Work in and through me. I’m thankful that I don’t have to be perfect in order to be useful to you. Help me trust in your strength. Amen.