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The Weak

Paul, in closing up his second epistle to the Corinthians, speaks about weakness. Specifically, he mentions having a "thorn in the flesh." (see chapter 12 verse 7). He does not elaborate on what this weakness is, and I'm sure that there has been a lot of conjecture about what that thorn could be. But it doesn't really matter, does it?

You see, we all have such thorns. We are all subject to such weaknesses. And like Paul, we would do well to acknowledge these things and put them in perspective.

We are not excused for our weakness. Rather, we must strive to make these weaknesses become strengths. How is this possible? How can I, being weak, be made strong? Paul himself says that he prayed to have this thorn removed, but that it remained with him. Is it possible to have such things removed? Is it even desirable?

Paul's attitude is interesting. Once he realized that the Lord would NOT remove the weakness, Paul gave himself completely over to the Lord and to His grace. He notes that the grace of the Lord is sufficient to make weak things become strong for us. Thus, by keeping our weaknesses in tact, we come to understand that we are insufficient unto ourselves, but it is through Christ (and Him alone) that we can be redeemed from these things. If I were able to simply change every weakness at my own discretion and will, what need would I have of/for Christ and His grace?

I cannot. I have come to rely completely and wholly on Him. He is my Salvation. He saves me from my weakness. He forgives me when I repent, and while the proverbial thorn stays in my proverbial side, I am nonetheless progressing in my faith and reliance on Him who is mighty to save.

And you know what? That's a very encouraging thought.

I am not perfect. I AM weak, after all. Yet the strength and mercy and grace of God are sufficient.

Please do not believe everything you hear. Please trust your heart and soul and the gentle whisperings of the Holy Spirit, which is a sure guide in times of darkness and confusion. Please believe that weaknesses CAN and WILL be made strengths in the due time of the Lord.

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