His Grace is Sufficient

Have you ever been nagged by a problem that even prayer wouldn't fix?  Then you can relate to the apostle Paul's battle with his pesky "thorn in the flesh."  It wasn't a literal thorn, but as the figure implies, it was a persistent irritation of some kind.  Paul called it "a messenger of Satan" - sent to frustrate, discourage, and weaken him.  Certain that he would be stronger and more productive without it, he prayed for relief.  But nothing happened - even after additional prayer.  He entreated yet again, and God finally responded, though not as expected- "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness"  (2 Corinthians 12:7-9).

At first glance the response may sound a bit insensitive, as if God were saying, "Haven't I already given you enough"  And her you are, asking for more.  Be satisfied with what you've got."  but that's not the thought.  The affliction, whatever it involved, was something Paul needed in his struggle against pride.  Even if Satan had intended it for Paul's harm, it became God's gift.  A higher purpose was realized, and as a result, Satan was the one who ended up frustrated and defeated, thanks in part to Paul's trust in god's provision.

We learn from Paul's experience that God's "grace" isn't limited to the lovely gifts He gives, whether spiritual or physical.  Grace also describes what He chooses not to give.  In the midst of your pain you may ask. "Why doesn't God step in and do something?"  But God is not absent.  He isn't temporarily powerless to help.  His grace is never insufficient!  He IS working in you and through you in ways you don't see, and for reasons you may not always understand.  You must trust Him in what He chooses to do or not do with you.  Remember what Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego told Nebuchadnezzar when he threatened them with a fiery death?

"IF it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire... but even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods." Daniel 3:17-18

There is a difference between what God can do and what He will do.  You can't always have what you want.  But, if you truly believe that God will always do what is best, then you will come to know that His grace - His giving AND withholding - is sufficient for you in all things.

John K. Wills