We are faced with many difficulties in life. Sickness of the body or mind--sometimes both. Financial difficulties, family strife.
To the one that is suffering, it is the most awful experience that could be faced.
God uses these trials in our lives as learning experiences. First and foremost, these trials help to keep us humble.
The Apostle Paul was given "a thorn in the flesh", he said was given to keep him from "becoming exalted above measure". (2 Corinthians 12:7)
Paul prayed to the Lord three times that his thorn be removed. The Lord answered Paul.
2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.
Was Paul's response to get mad or to pout or give up? No, it wasn't. Paul responded as we all should to trials.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Most gladly therefore will I 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 I am strong.
Christ's strength is found through His grace. Oh, what a wonderful gift.
What is grace? Grace is the loving mercy that God grants us each and every day. Grace is the forgiveness that we could never have earned on our own. Grace is the strength to face a new day because we have the assurance Jesus, with His strength is facing that day with us.
God wants us to rely on His strength, His grace--not upon our own selves.
I have learned in my own life that when I get too "secure" in me, that the bottom tends to fall out. My security has to be in the precious grace Grace that God grants each day. When things go wrong, I can still rejoice, God is in control.
Lamentations 3:21-23 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Mercy is defined as loving kindness. If that isn't grace sufficient enough for me--I am so thankful the Lord loves me enough to grant me His grace.
Trust in Him, He's got grace sufficient enough for us all.
