“…Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” II Corinthians 12:10

The Apostle Paul in this passage is speaking of his “thorn in the flesh”. God had allowed a physical malady to keep the Apostle weak. What strikes me as unique is Paul’s attitude towards God’s will in his life. After asking God three times for healing, God let Paul know that His grace was sufficient.

There are a couple things worth considering here in my opinion.                                             #1 God’s ways are definitely not mans ways.                                                                               #2 Paul trusted God and really did believe that God allowed these things to occur for a good reason.

Paul’s attitude is really something for me to consider when I am bellyaching and whining about my own circumstances.

The Apostle said, “Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” and “…I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.”                                                                                                                                         This attitude of the Apostle Paul goes against the flesh, human nature and pride. And it contradicts much of what is called Christianity today.

Shawn

“Trouble is often the only fire which will burn away the dross which clings to our hearts.       Trouble is the pruning-knife which Christ employs in order to make us fruitful in good works. The harvest of the Lord’s field is seldom ripened by sunshine only. It must go through its days of wind and rain and storm.” J. C. Ryle {1816-1900}

“The road to the Kingdom is not so pleasant, and comfortable, and easy, and flowery, as many dream. It is not a bright sunny avenue of palms. It is not paved with triumph, though it is to end in victory. The termination is glory, honor, and immortality; but on the way, there is the thorn in the flesh, the sackcloth, and the cross. Recompense yonder; but labor here! Rest yonder; but weariness here! Joy and security yonder; but here endurance and watchfulness—the race, the battle, the burden, the stumbling block, and oft-times the heavy heart.” Horatius Bonar (1808-1889)