SUFFICIENT GRACE

“And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

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.

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” II Corinthians 12:7-10)

God said to Paul, “my grace is sufficient for thee,” not that it would prove to be. But, what Paul knew theoretically, he would now know experimentally. A grace that can save a hell-bound sinner can deliver from the difficulties of life. He who allows the “thorn” can give the grace to bear it.

Grace is given to resist temptations; to strengthen graces; and to endure trials. Yet, grace must be diligently sought, one must “come boldly to the throne of grace.” (Hebrews 4:16). The psalmist wrote, “in the day when I cried, thou answeredest me and strengthenest me with strength in my soul.” (Psalm 138:3).

When I declare my weakness, His strength enables me to endure trials, resist temptations and be fruitful amid afflictions.

Under His wings,

Pastor Ed Bowen

August 15, 2010