HOW TO OVERCOME CHALLENGES
Verse: But he said to me My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12: 9
Introduction: My grace is enough for you because it fulfils my strength in weakness. These are the words of the Lord Jesus’ teaching to Paul. The Lord Jesus is trying to explain something to him. If we want to understand this, then we have to understand what was it that made Saint Paul uneasy, and what was that thing he was praying about to remove that from his life. This life journey of Apostle Paul teaches us that how to overcome worldly challenges.
Worldly challenges before paul: ministry life of the apostle Paul wasn’t easy. Satan was using some false teachers against him. There were questions raised about the apostle Paul’s spiritual life and his authority as an apostle. 2 Corinthians 10: 2 says, “I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as a expect to be towards some people who think that we live by the standard of this world. Some people were humiliating him with his speech and his body. They say,” His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amount to nothing.” 2 Corinthians 10:10.
The thorn in Paul’s body: Paul’s calling is divine. His wisdom and power were also divine, but some false teachers were constantly preaching against him. He became very upset because some anxiety had arisen in front of him. That is why it was a significant challenge for him to get out of this situation and carry on with the ministry. Understanding how he overcame this situation is very inspiring for the ministers.
He sought to show how his spiritual life and knowledge, his faith in the gospel, and his right to be an apostle were superior. In fact, he did not worry about criticism. He devoted himself to the spiritual growth of the churches. He worked hard day and night to make the church stand for Christ as a pure virgin. But he feared that these false teachers would become a stumbling stone to church. 2 Corinthians 11: 2,3,5. It was like a thorn in the flesh.
Overcoming Challenges Through Prayer: While he was praying to the Lord Jesus, he received the answer that my grace is sufficient for you. Because my strength is fulfilled in the weak. This means that the Lord Jesus Christ was telling him not to succumb to this false propaganda. Let them do whatever they want. I am with you, giving you strength in your weakness.
Our Lord Jesus Christ knows everything about our life situation and challenges that we face in our life. We should focus on our giving task and ministry. Because he said to us, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made in weakness.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, your plans and your intentions are great. And you can do that. So give me the strength to serve you with joy, regardless of the opposition. I ask in the name of Jesus, Amen.
Note: I take the bible quotes from “The Holy bible, new international version.”
Rev. Kailas [Alisha] Sathe.