2 Corinthians 12:9

But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me.

There are times when God does not answer our prayers exactly as we hoped, but He always responds—sometimes with a gentle whisper in our hearts, sometimes through Scripture, and sometimes by placing just the right assurance within us (2 Corinthians 12:9). When Paul pleaded fiercely for relief from his thorn in the flesh, God’s answer wasn’t immediate deliverance but a deeper promise: “My grace is sufficient for you.” God doesn’t always remove what hurts us, but He will always supply what sustains us. His way is always for both our good and His greater glory, whether or not we see it in the moment (Romans 8:28).

“Grace” here is more than kindness; it’s God’s all-sufficient help—strong enough to carry us through every hardship. The Scriptures call Him “God Almighty” or “Shaddai” (Genesis 17:1), the All-Sufficient One, a reminder that there is no lack in His ability to uphold us. No ordinary wisdom, no natural strength, and not even religious activity can substitute for the powerful grace Jesus gives. Only His grace is truly effective—enough to forgive, cleanse, supply, and hold us through every kind of weakness, temptation, loss, fear, or trial (Philippians 4:19Hebrews 4:16). This is the grace that covered saints of old and is offered freely to both the greatest and least, Jew and Gentile alike.

If it seems strange that God’s strength shines best in our weakness, remember: our helpless places make room for His power to be plainly seen. When our own resources fail, His grace steps in and does what we cannot. This is why Paul could “glory” in his frailty—it became the very place Christ’s power rested, like a protective shelter over him (2 Corinthians 12:91 Peter 1:5). We are shielded, not by our abilities, but by Christ Himself—our refuge and covering (Isaiah 4:6).

Rest in this comfort: God’s grace will meet you, right at your greatest need. When you feel weakest, you are exactly where His strength can be seen and felt most clearly. Let His sufficiency encourage your heart today.

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