WHEN YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES FALL SHORT
2 Corinthians 1:8–10; 12:6–10
One of the realities of the Christian life is that we aren’t guaranteed an easy life just because we follow Christ faithfully. Sometimes our difficulties come from being godly in a lost world. But God is with us.
When we solidify that certainty, our faith deepens and our commitments to God grow. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone in difficult circumstances helps you persevere.
Trying circumstances draw us to rely on God. (1:8–10)
Take time to consider the weight of Paul’s words in these verses. Paul experienced being burdened, overwhelmed and even tired of living while dedicating his life to sharing the gospel, preaching, planting churches and doing missionary work. The key to understanding how Paul was able to do these things is found in his relationship with the Lord.
When adversity came into Paul’s life, he made a deliberate decision to place his hope in God. Have you learned that God can be trusted no matter what is happening around you? This kind of hope results from experience and the actions of our heavenly Father.
Trying circumstances keep us humble before God. (12:6–8)
The nature of Paul’s thorn in the flesh has always sparked much debate. Some scholars propose a physical illness, while others suggest a more spiritual cause.
I believe the “messenger of Satan” was a real person allowed by God to be part of Paul’s life, bringing discouragement, criticism and persecution. When someone is facing a tough time, one of the heaviest burdens is when others join in the attacks.
The power of an antagonist’s words can break even the strongest individuals. In God’s providence, even a thorn in the flesh can be used by Him to fulfill a specific purpose.
God strengthens us by His grace to endure trying circumstances. (9–10)
Three times Paul asked God to remove the thorn, and three times God said no. This does not mean God didn’t care; it shows God had other plans Paul could not see. The thorn remained, but God’s grace reigned. When Paul accepted that reality, he changed his prayers.
Sometimes prayer changes our lives; sometimes life changes our prayers. Instead of giving up or becoming bitter, Paul learned to cultivate humility and praise the Father. He grew in dependence on God’s character and holiness. God didn’t remove the thorn, but He strengthened Paul.
We are not called to understand, analyze or even fully grasp the troubles and circumstances we face. We are called to be faithful. In doing so, God gives us the strength to endure.
Years ago, the manager of a TV station in my area would offer on-air commentary about the latest news, politics or current events. Among his many catchphrases was, “It is what it is.” Essentially, this meant that whatever he was talking about was the reality, and we couldn’t pretend otherwise.
In life, sometimes “it is what it is.” When those times come, remember that God is who He says He is.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
