Good morning .
If you’ve ever had a splinter in your finger you know how bothersome the pain can be. Not all our problems are that little or so easily removed. Sometimes they accompany us for years and can seem unbearable.
Paul had a “splinter” in his life. We’re not told what (or who) the painful aggravation was, but it tormented and humbled him. He prayed three times for it to be removed, but God promised only grace, explaining that His power is perfected in weakness.
When our strength is lacking, we begin to discover God is enough. We can brave hardship and sorrow because the He is with us, promising “our momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison” (2 Cor. 4:17).
James reminds us to "let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:4)
Paul embraced that response. Whether in feast or famine and even when insulted and persecuted for the sake of Christ, the apostle rejoiced in his weakness because he’d learned the secret of contentment: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:12-13).
Circumstances may not be in our control, but our response is. We can become anxious and walk away from God, or we can lean on Him and trust Him to help us. In walking with Him for over 50 years, He has always been by our side; been there for us.
Blessings.
Mike and Daphne
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