Monday; February 10

When you think about the Apostle Paul, what comes to mind?  For most of us, we see a spiritually convicted individual who refused to back down to anyone.  Even when he was wrong (like his early years when he persecuted the church), he had a fire in his belly.  Yet, there is another side to Paul – one mentioned in the book of II Corinthians.  In this letter to one of the churches close to him he describes a “thorn in the flesh”.  While he doesn’t elaborate on the exact nature of the issue, he tells them about a struggle he is having.  Here this almost unflappable spiritual leader admits to struggling.  While he doesn’t describe the issue, he mentions that he had asked the Lord to relieve his burden, to which the Lord responds “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” (II Corinthians 12:9).  Paul may not have liked what was going on with him, but he saw that God could use it to His glory. 

When we struggle with issues, what do we think?  Often, the first reaction is that we are being punished; but that may not be so.  Like Paul, it could be something to remind us of our need to stay humble.  Additionally, it might be a way for us to connect with others.  By sharing our struggles with others we might be able to help them overcome the thorns in their flesh.  Paul summarizes this issue by writing, “Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” (II Corinthians 12:10).  

Are we having some tough times?  Let’s not get down on ourselves (or God), rather let’s look for ways we can use our challenges to cement our relationship with Him and share our hope with others. 

Think About It! 

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