Daily Devotion — The Surprising Truth about Strength and Weakness in 2 Corinthians 12:9

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV

The Thorn of Weakness

What was the greatest moment of joy in your life? Think about it. I bet you felt filled with strength, joy, and peace. Now, how did you determine what that moment was? Did you compare it to some of your weakest moments?

Paul writes this verse in the context of lamenting about the ‘thorn in his flesh’. Theologians have debated, but no one knows exactly, what that thorn was. Really, the specifics of a person’s ‘thorn’, is only important to them; and to God.

Our thorns (weaknesses) are important to us because of our pride. Our thorns can turn us inward, and separate us from God. But our weaknesses also help us, they help us turn toward each other. And, return us to our Lord.

Our weaknesses are important to God because they make us pliable enough for God to perfect. Isn’t it a shame that we often turn to God only after we become so broken? Or is it?