Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave 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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 12:8-10 (ESV)

 

We must learn to understand grace in all its truth.

Grace is much more than the doctrine of unmerited favour —though it is part of the truth. We must understand grace, as defined by Jesus, as His power being revealed more fully in our weaknesses.

We should not be ashamed when we face difficulties in life. Trials and tribulations are unavoidable, especially if we truly desire to follow Jesus. The devil will do everything in his power to keep you from fulfilling your God-given purpose. While the Apostle Paul recognises that his problems will not go away soon, he also understands that they will not last forever. He learns to endure everything through Christ's supernatural power working in and through him.

God’s grace in Christ will not only save us, but also sustain us, allowing us to persevere. Our perseverance comes to us from God, who has given us everything in Christ. God has the power to turn what Satan intended for your destruction into His blessings and promotion in your life. While Paul did not enjoy or relish his suffering, he was able to think himself happy (cf. Acts 26:2) due to the revelation he received from the Lord. God would open more doors for Paul to proclaim the good news of God’s grace.

If your faith is frail and weary, go refresh yourself by hearing the truth of the gospel over and again. The Holy Spirit will restore hope and strength in your heart where despair and pain once resided.