Learning To Live With Life’s Loads

2 Corinthians12:1-10

We don’t know the nature of Paul’s affliction, but it wasn’t a pleasant one. Perhaps it was physical. Perhaps it was emotional. But we do know it was painful. Three times Paul went before the Lord, begging Him to take away this burden. And three times, Paul was denied.
Are there burdens and afflictions in your life? Do you wonder why you must experience them? Rest assured that if God allowed a trial in your life, you will be able to withstand it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
When we ask God to take these burdens and trials away, we must analyze our requests. Are they because we just don’t want them around? Can we not go on anymore? Are our burdens simply uncomfortable?
No matter how heavy the load seems, God is there with you. He will use the burden or trial to transform you, to change you, to use you.
The answer Paul received as to why his burden wouldn’t disappear was this: “‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me” (2 Cor. 12:9).
In his weakness, Paul was made strong, stronger than he would’ve been had he not suffered. In your weakness, you also will be made strong through Him.

Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries