Contemplation #118
“My grace is sufficient for you . . .” 2 Corinthians 12:9

There is so much curiosity into the exact nature of Paul’s ‘thorn in the flesh’ though perhaps it is God’s will that it remain a mystery. If we knew that Paul was speaking about a physical illness, or a temptation toward sin, or an inward struggle of the soul, we could easily conclude that grace is sufficient only in the area of his particular trial. However, since the nature of his thorn is unknown, the truth that grace is sufficient for all things is made clear. When I read Christ’s reassurance, my own struggle becomes the matter for which grace will suffice. Whatever my situation, I am reminded that God’s grace is enough, and that I will find life through depending on Him.

Contemplation #119
“My grace is sufficient for you . . .” 2 Corinthians 12:9

Sufficient. Grace alone, the merciful activity of God, provides all that is needed to address the difficulties of life. This is not forgiveness alone, but the work of God alone. It is like saying God is enough . . . nothing else is needed. Our insufficiency is made all the more apparent, the illusion of our capability swept away by the stark realities of what we encounter in life, and we come to see the only reassurance we can have – God’s grace. A life in grace, by grace, through grace, and sharing grace is the life of a Christian.

Contemplation #120
“My grace is sufficient for you . . .” 2 Corinthians 12:9

For you. God’s grace is not an impersonal divine activity that sweeps over us anonymously, but which comes to us directly, individually, and personally. In this way our particular struggles are addressed and strength is given for the exact nature of what we face. God in all his vastness and majesty is still very capable to give sufficient grace to each one of us. This is a tremendous source of comfort and joy, because in the rank aloneness we feel in times of distress, God comes near with merciful and loving help, the grace of Presence.