In My Weakness

My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness. — 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV

The Scriptures don’t provide the specifics, but we know that the apostle Paul struggled with what he referred to as a “thorn in [his] flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7). Whatever the problem was, it was so bothersome to Paul he pleaded with God three times to remove it, but God refused. Instead, today’s scripture tells us, God told Paul that His grace was sufficient and he needed to rely on God’s power rather than his own.

When God calls us to difficult seasons, He gives us the grace to persevere.

God’s grace gives us the power to be who He has called us to be and do the things He has called us to do no matter how challenging the circumstance. Sometimes it’s tempting for us to worry about how we will make it in the days, weeks, months, and years to come. But God provides His grace at the exact time we need it and not a minute before. We can be confident God will provide at just the right time.

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Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? — 1 Corinthians 3:16

The Bible is full of important truths we are prone to forget. In today’s reading, Paul raised a question in his letter to the church at Corinth and asked if they were aware that the Holy Spirit dwelled in them. If we aren’t mindful of the Holy Spirit’s presence, we will fail to draw strength from Him, and as a result, we will walk in the flesh rather than the Spirit (Romans 8:8–9).

The Spirit is present to help us in our weaknesses.

The Holy Spirit helps, teaches, guides, convicts, and empowers us to glorify God (John 14:17; John16:8-13). Every Christ-follower is a temple of the living God and is holy. Jesus knew we would need help. That’s why He sent us a Helper, the Holy Spirit (John 16:7; Acts 2:1-4). As believers, we need to be mindful of the Holy Spirit’s presence and continually rely on His strength.

Excerpted with permission from Made in His Image, copyright Zondervan.

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Your Turn

This is a difficult season without a doubt. It’s challenging. And, we don’t know when it will get better so worry is easy. Let’s press our weakness into the Holy Spirit knowing that He indwells us and He is our help. Come share your thoughts with us on our blog. We want to hear from you! ~ Devotionals Daily