For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Some of the most challenging times for my son is when I tell him no. I remember the same experience when I was a child as well. I remember on many occasions asking to buy something or to do something. I remember the frustration of being told no.
Society would have us believe that we are entitled to anything and everything. We are told we should have things our way. We strive to live without suffering and inconvenience. We want to be healthy and will spend countless hours and dollars trying to achieve happiness and health.
But there are many times that I hear Christians share frustrations about these things in life. They share that they have prayed for God to heal them, fix their challenges, or help their happiness. They are upset because God didn’t take away the things that were causing problems. Sometimes, God says no.
Paul writes about that here. He had specific things in his life that he asked God to take away. He wanted to be free of those circumstances. Instead, God left them. God said no. He didn’t say that Paul was alone to deal with those things. God promised grace to meet the need.
There are times in life when God says no. He may not remove the challenge, sickness, or circumstances that you are dealing with. But He does promise that He has grace that is sufficient. In our weakness, God’s strength can shine through. Don’t be discouraged because God says no. Trust in His grace and that HIs strength will help you through.
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