Our scripture this morning is 2 Corinthians 12:6-10.
But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what is seen in me or heard from me, even considering the exceptional character of the revelations. Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated. Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.
Paul writes that through our weakness, God displays His strength. He tells the church at Corinth (and us) that through his affliction “the power of Christ may dwell in me”. Paul focuses on the Lord and the mission we have been given rather than the distraction of his torment.
This is how the enemy works in our world. He doesn’t need to destroy or defeat us, merely distracting us from the commission Christ gave us is enough. Paul says he asked God to remove this but received the answer “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness”.
We all have things that distract us, not necessarily evil things in themselves, but any thing, activity or person who keeps us from the task Jesus assigned of making disciples is an impediment to the Kingdom. Paul was able to allow God to continue to use him for the work, giving up the “thorn” he suffered for God’s glory rather than allowing it to stop him. We must all ask God to use us even in our weakness, that all may hear the Good News of salvation.
Loving Lord, we are grateful that even in our weakness You have a plan for us. May we go in Your strength to share Your love for all. Amen.
