Have you ever felt inadequate, imperfect, weak or like a failure? Do you experience anxiety, anger, despair or loneliness? Does your health limit you from doing things you want or need to do? I think we all have had these experiences. Friend, our shortcomings and limitations do not surprise God.
Paul, called by God to preach the good news to the Gentiles and write many of the books in the New Testament, had what he said was a thorn in his side. He prayed several times for God to take it away, but the Lord said to him, “My Grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9).
Paul didn’t get upset because God didn’t give him what he asked. He said, “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).
THINK ABOUT IT
Have you considered that your hard times are God’s opportunity? Friend, He doesn’t want you to struggle aimlessly. This is what Jesus said: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
Imagine what it means to be yoked with Jesus. He is gentle and humble, yet willing to lead, willing to help you. Instead of being stressed, be blessed by asking Him for help. He waits for your prayer. He longs for you to be dependent on Him.
PRAY ABOUT IT
Holy Father, thank you for Jesus, willing to help in times of trouble. Open our eyes. Open our hearts to receive your great mercy and help. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tell Me the Story 