His grace is sufficient

At some point in our lives, most of us have experienced a severe trial of some sort–perhaps “a thorn in our flesh.”

In 2nd Corinthians, the Apostle Paul writes of a thorn given to him to keep him from becoming conceited:

Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:8-9

Recently, I’ve been sidelined from normal activities due to a concussion. Fortunately, my symptoms aren’t permanent and I’m making progress toward recovery. My thorn is an inconvenience, but I’m blessed that it is temporary.

But, what about those brave people who cannot escape their “thorns”?

According to the US Census Bureau, one in five people in the United States has a disability. The Centers for Disease Control reports that one-half of all adults, 117 million people, have a chronic disease. These numbers astound me!

Most of these people will endure these conditions for the remainder of their lives. Like Paul, their thorn will remain a part of nearly every aspect of their daily living.

When I view the limitations of my current condition in this perspective, my symptoms don’t seem so bad.

But, my heart aches for those whose thorns are not temporary, for the millions of people that daily live with disabilities and chronic diseases. Can they see the roses that accompany the thorns?

You probably know someone with a “thorn” that affects their daily life. In my early teaching career I had a colleague whom I greatly admire. In spite of physical limitations, she taught with joy and enthusiasm. She exemplified dedication and commitment, in spite of what some referred to as a disability, and served as an inspiration for her students and coworkers. Her “thorn” did not define her.

She was strong.

Paul said:

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 12:10

We all have weaknesses. We all face difficulties and hardships. I pray that we, like Paul, can turn to Christ and recognize that in him–WE ARE STRONG!

Our Lord’s grace is sufficient!