Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
2 Corinthians 12: 7-10
v9 - But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 
The heart of the passage is in verse 9, “My Grace is sufficient for you”. The word ‘Grace’ is a magnificent word and comes from the Greek word ’Charis’. This spiritual word refers to divine favor, divine blessing and divine benefit. It refers to which God has given to us in Christ, not because we earned or deserved it but because of His will. Gospel of St John 1:14 says, “He was full of Grace”. And out of this fullness we received Grace.
 
  1. Suffering humbles you. (vs:7)
St. Paul says the reason for his suffering is to keep him from exalting himself. God gives him a Thorn in his flesh to kill his proud tendencies. So embrace the suffering that humbles you.
  1. Suffering draws us to God (Vs: 8)
St. Paul prays to God 3times. His prayer was in faith and persistent. In our suffering we enter the deepest, richest and sweetest communion with our Lord.
  1. Suffering displays God’s Grace (Vs.9)
God answered not by removing the pain or trouble but by increasing His Grace. God does not promise a trouble-free life instead His Grace in the midst.
  1.  Suffering perfects Gods power (vs:10)
As Christians we need to have the power to work eternally. God’s power begins to operate when we have none left. If we try to trust in only our strength or power, we are going to be weak. So, in the end, Paul goes from sadness to joy. In suffering, when we remain faithful and strong in Christ, then we can say like Apostle Paul, for when I am weak, then I am strong.
 
PRAYER
Dear Lord, help us to be humble before you, intimate with you, flooded with Thy Grace and be powerful for your purpose. For all these come through our suffering. With St. Paul we embrace it gladly, so that you are Glorified through us. In Jesus name, Amen
 
 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
It is grace that saves us, sanctifies us and carries us through suffering with endurance.

Dr. Julie Alex, Salem MTC, NY
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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