“…the Lord’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Limitations and difficulties are a part of life. The Apostle Paul knew this all too well…as do we. Paul had a “thorn in the flesh” or some type of limitation. There were no specifics only a plea for help. Nevertheless, through his human attempt of asking the Lord to remove this limitation, the Lord’s answer to his petition was “My grace is enough.” I am quite certain this was not the response Paul desired to hear from our Lord.
Many of us could attest to the fact that, indeed, it is not a simple thorn which pokes at us, but a thorn bush which is wrapped around us and others give it a “yank” from time to time . We, like Paul, desire that this “thorn” or limitation be removed; however, the Lord answers us with those same comforting words of grace.
Limitations and difficulties divide our focus, just as it had in Paul’s life. We tend to focus on the limitation and lose sight of the power of grace demonstrated through our weakness. Indeed, it is our limitations that drive us to our need for the Lord’s intervention alone. We must rely on God’s efficiency and effectiveness, not our own.
It is during these times that our Lord demonstrates His power and the power of grace rests on us. Grace moves in. Grace takes up residence and roots itself into our lives…into our limitations. What a comfort to know that the Lord’s grace and strength takes root in my life. And because it takes root in my life means the thorns are overpowered.
Indeed, limitations and difficulties are a part of life; however, when our Lord’s grace takes up residence and moves in, when His grace takes root in our lives, His power rests on us. Limitations are a part of life, but remember, when our Lord’s grace takes root in our lives it also takes root in the midst of our limitations and they are overpowered. Let us allow God’s grace to take root and move in.
Prayer: Almighty advocate of all of us with limitations, hear our plea and petition this day. May we, as grateful servants, allow Your grace to take root in our lives and reside. We thank You for the grace and strength which rests on us as we continue to serve You and others each day. Amen.
Melody S. Kidd, Chaplain
Peninsula Care and Rehab in Tarpon Springs, FL