“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me’”
March 28, 2020
When Paul wrote that he “took pleasure in his infirmities,” he didn’t mean he was bragging about his sickness. Have you ever met anyone who brags about his sickness? You don't dare ask how he feels, or he'll give you an organ recital.
It wasn't that Paul enjoyed poor health. But Paul learned his weakness could become a strength. God had a higher plan.
It is not God's plan that we escape all trouble. Nor is it God's plan that we merely “endure.” Rather, God wants to enlist your sickness. Your infirmity can be used to reveal His glory. It can be used for Christ’s sake.
There's nothing wrong with praying, “Lord, I want to escape this suffering.” Paul did—three times. Our Lord Himself in the Garden of Gethsemane asked the Father, “If it be possible, let this cup pass from Me.” But the Lord had a higher plan. So the first thing we ought to do when we hurt is pray, “Lord, take it away, please.” If He doesn't, ask Him again and continue to ask Him until He tells you that He has a better or a higher plan.
With space for personal reflections, prayers, and insights, this journal guides you through key Bible passages illuminating the path from Calvary to the empty tomb, inviting you to meditate on the Scriptures, pray, and write as you grow in faith.